A show for winners
sector that makes him a truly unique member of the team that organises Europe’s largest motorsport trade show, Autosport International, which takes place at the National Exhibition Centre in Birmingham, UK on 12-13 January 2012. Affectionately termed ‘Tony’s living room’ by
T
Wilfred Eibach, president of Eibach Springs, Tony is a real driving force for the show’s trade area and, as preparations for next year’s event get underway, we spoke with him to find out what life has been like being part of such an important event for the industry. 'I’ve been involved since the first year when there were 45 stands, now there are over 300,'
ony Tobias is an unforgettable character. Anyone that has met him would not dispute his energy and passion for the motorsport industry. It’s this love for the
services in the area. We even had Steve Lewis from Performance Racing Industry (PRI), America’s show for those within the sector attend in 2011. He was very impressed. 'The Manufacturing Technology area is a
relatively new section of the show and has become very successful. Since its inception it has continued to grow and has widened the attraction of Autosport International further.'
'I’m very proud of the show and the work that
everyone does to ensure all visitors and exhibitors are satisfied and return,' continued Tobias. 'Through the years there have been a huge number of highlights – too many to mention in fact – but, starting from the top: "Mr E", Bernie Ecclestone, coming to the show has certainly stayed in my mind. As has having other F1 grandees attend, such as Patrick Head, Ron Dennis and Ross Brawn, as well as many other leading Formula 1 designers and suppliers. This is a real honour. 'Of course, the 20th anniversary party for Racecar Engineering, which took place at the 2010 show, was a very important moment. A whole host of the staff that have worked on the magazine since its inception were there to celebrate alongside exhibitors with champagne
on the stand, including three former editors – Quentin Spurring, Charles Armstrong-Wilson and Graham Jones. 'The show also hosted the launch of the first
Force India F1 car, where several hundred media attended, which of course was brilliant to see. However, amongst all of these, my proudest moment was walking then secretary of trade and industry, Lord Heseltine, and honorary president of the MIA, Lord Astor, around Autosport International, introducing them to exhibitors and showing some of the products and services on offer. 'The show really has become key to the
said Tony. 'Of course, it can be extremely busy and there is a lot of work to do, but if I didn’t love it I wouldn’t still be here! 'We have some very loyal exhibitors that come
back to the show year after year. Among these are Quaife, Xtrac, Deutsche, Eibach and Capricorn, to name just a few. This year we also have Alcon and Ricardo returning, which just shows that Autosport International is a show that delivers value and is very important for those providing
Tony’s recognition for his work with the show
and its exhibitors has extended beyond the confines of the motorsport engineering sector, and he has even paid a visit to Buckingham Palace for his contribution to the UK motorsport industry. He was also honoured with the 2004 Motorsport Industry Association (MIA) Excellence Award, which is given to companies or individuals who have gained the respect of their peers within the industry.
industry and truly is an event that should not be missed. Without the expertise, the drive and care that they have, the show wouldn’t attract the returning exhibitors and visitors. I’m so proud to be part of a show that is different, with a sales team that isn’t all about turning over numbers but about ensuring that everyone has a great experience. It’s definitely a show for winners, run by an award-winning team.'
Companies interested in exhibiting at Autosport International 2012 can find more information by calling +44 (0)20 8267 8307. Tickets for trade visitors are also now on sale. To book call 0845 218 6012 or visit www.
autosportinternational.com/trade
September 2011 •
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