JAA's Autofest, a success

Hundreds of motorists turned out at the Jamaica Automobile Association's (JAA) one-day Autofest at its Central Avenue headquarters on Saturday, June 11.

The auto fair, held in partnership with the Insurance Association of Jamaica (IAJ), was a hit with drivers and buyers alike, who took advantage of the no-cost services such as vehicle inspections, battery checks and valuations, as well as a used-car sales mart.

"This Autofest was a major success and has exceeded our expectations," said Duane Ellis, general manager of the JAA. "We expected to inspect about 50 vehicles. However, we looked at more than 120, and had to cut off at an agreed point."

Each motorist was treated to a car wash, followed by an inspection, and a valuation report, if requested. In addition, guests could purchase a wide variety of motor vehicle products from JAA merchants offering special discounts.

JAA members have access to the association's discount partners which provide services at reduced rates and the internationally recognised 'Show Your Card and Save' programme which offers savings at more than 150 merchants locally, and more than 150,000 overseas.

pleased

Orville Johnson, executive director of the IAJ was pleased with the event and hopes to see it replicated across the island in the future.

"This is the kind of event that we want to repeat," Johnson said. "We intend to work with the JAA to broaden the concept, and hold similar events at different locations across the island along with our other stakeholders."

Patron Albert Henry said the event gave him a chance to receive a number of services that he would normally have to pay for.

favourite feature

"My favourite feature was the vehicle inspection and I look forward to another like this in the future," he added.

Patrons were eager to participate in the defensive driving demonstrations conducted by race-car driver and instructor Christopher McFarlane.

"We wanted the event to be a one-stop-shop experience for patrons, and the participation of our many partners made it possible for us to achieve that objective," Ellis said. "It also fulfilled part of our commitment to the UN Decade of Action for Road Safety, which seeks to build awareness about road safety and proper road usage."

The used-car flea market, a major feature of the event, was deemed a success and saw seven cars being sold on the spot.

"We also welcomed several new members, as patrons at the Autofest signed up for membership," Mr Ellis said.

Guardsman Alarms Limited also used the fair to showcase its vehicle-tracking technology, which is available free of cost to JAA members through an exclusive arrangement.