Peter and Renate Hürlimann organized the St. Gallen classic car fair for the 11th time. On October 25, 2015, it was that time again and once again the classic car drivers queued up to get one of the coveted and free parking spaces in front of the halls.
Successful model
"After 40 minutes, we were already full to bursting," said Peter Hürlimann, who was delighted with the large turnout. By the evening, the Hürlimann couple could look back with satisfaction on a successful trade fair. By the end of the day, many of the exhibitors had already booked their stands again for next year (October 30, 2016). And over 5,000 visitors are also something to be proud of for a one-day event. Many a viewer of the exhibits felt that there were a lot of them, especially when they wanted to take a photo.
Over 1000 classic cars
Peter Hürlimann reported that there must have been more than 1000 classic cars that drove in and out of the various parking lots around the exhibition halls throughout the day.
The contingent in the halls themselves was almost too small, but even there there was plenty to discover, such as the almost virgin Opel GT/J at Vogel, the magnificent Adler 2-liter from 1938, the sporty Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona at the car construction stand, the Lamborghini Countach and BMW M1 super sports cars at a dealer stand or the Goodtimer Austin Healey collection.
And no one could pass by the three Citroën Traction Avants that the club had set up without looking. The only thing you couldn't do was buy them, but if you really wanted a car, you might find what you were looking for at the Touring Garage with a red Porsche 912 or a white MG B GT. But Bentley, Facel, Citroën, Renault or Alfa Romeo fans could also be helped. And there was also plenty to discover in the parts area.
A sense of proportion as a success factor
Peter Hürlimann does not use a computer or an architect to plan and arrange the stands. Paper and pencil are enough for him. He seems to be doing well with this, because the exhibitors are satisfied. They appreciate the relaxed and friendly atmosphere in Eastern Switzerland and enjoyed the conversations with passers-by.
Exchange of experience
And this is perhaps also one of the secrets of its success. The exhibitors have time for their customers.
Daniel Bachmann, for example, patiently explained what it means to restore an Audi Quattro and preserve it for future decades, Sepp Wagner explained the finer points of the art of bodywork, Ivo Buschor talked about the dormant powers hidden in the Riley engine ...
The thing with the bratwurst
The tour through the halls and the outdoor area - after all, you don't want to miss the most beautiful public vehicles - produced thirst and hunger. However, patient queuing was required before the bratwurst came to the rescue; half an hour could easily pass, but hardly anyone in the queue did not find someone to talk to sooner or later so that the petrol conversation could continue.
See you again next year, on October 30, 2016.
