Auto show puts Belizeans in driver’s seat

If you’re looking for something different to do this weekend, this year’s auto show might be the answer. On Saturday and Sunday, Belize’s four main auto dealerships will be profiling their latest sets of wheels and accessories at the Belize Tourism Village. According to Damian Gough of the Belize Chamber of Commerce, the show is designed to draw Belizeans to the village and maybe lighten up a few wallets as well.

Damian Gough, Membership Services Director

“This year’s auto show, the fourth of its kind, is being held at the Belize Tourism Village, specifically with the idea being that we wanted to try to improve on the show itself, improve the presentation of the show. In previous years, we had used the City Centre, and the backdrop wasn’t necessarily as attractive as the village. Also, we were looking at it to try to be sort of a double shot thing to promote the businesses within the village, try to dispel the previous misconceptions that Belizeans weren’t allowed in there to shop and that sort of thing. It’s being looked at as a double-ditched effort this year. Indeed, the objective is to generate sales for the dealers. Over the last couple of years, we have seen an increase in the number of vehicles that are actually bought as a result of the show. Initially the numbers were in the mid to low twenties and the year before they were at about fifty-four, last year was about forty-eight. This year we’re expecting the same sort of purchasing going on.”

In case you were wondering, banks will be on standby at the Tourism Village to set you up with a loan for a new ride. The show starts at 9:00 on both days and entrance is free.