Big Numbers Drive Home Impact Of South Florida International Auto Show

MIAMI, Oct. 31, 2003 -- The numbers tell the story. Beginning this weekend, more than 300 semi trucks will roll in from all over the country in advance of the 33rd annual South Florida International Auto Show, which opens on Friday, November 7th. The semi trucks carry the framework of an annual exhibit that is among the biggest in the nation, and one of few events to fill all four halls of the massive Miami Beach Convention Center. By opening day, nearly 1,000 managers and workers will spend 50,000 man-hours assembling displays from 40 carmakers. On a plush field of 600,000 square feet of carpet, under hundreds of gleaming lights, nearly 1,000 vehicles will dazzle more than 60,000 visitors before the 10-day extravaganza is over.

Hungry for more numbers? Last year, vendors sold 13,000 hot dogs, burgers and other morsels. And 35,000 sodas, coffee and other beverages to wash them down. Then 21,000 packages of ice cream and other snacks.

One big number that's especially sweet: The auto show has an estimated annual impact on the local economy of $68 million.

For more information, visit or website at www.sfliautoshow.com.