Preparations are in full swing. There are still around four weeks to go until OTM Winterthur. On November 16 and 17, 2013, the Winterthur classic car and parts market will take place in its new setup for the first time. Everything should be better and the signs are good. Co-organizer Pierino H. Keller(PHK) answered Zwischengas'(ZG) questions.
ZG: Will OTM Winterthur be a success this year?
PHK: This question always concerns the organizer. We are making very good progress and the chances of the event being a great success are good. The exhibitors who have registered so far provide a good mix of products and services, the location is ideally suited and the response from the classic car scene so far leads us to expect good visitor numbers.
ZG: What has changed compared to the past?
PHK: Actually, apart from the classic car theme, everything is new, i.e. the organizer, the team, the duration of 2 days, etc.
The communication in the media, for example, cannot be compared to the past. The partnership with RadioTop and TeleTop gives us an unprecedented platform to draw attention to the event, which will have a huge impact on visitor numbers. We are also trying to involve more youngtimer enthusiasts, because they drive the classic cars of tomorrow. The topic of young talent is also very important to us, so everyone who is doing an apprenticeship in the automotive or motorcycle sector is invited, for example.
ZG: How are the preparations going?
PHK: Preparations are going well, the hectic phase is starting these days. Many details can only be clarified shortly before the event. One positive aspect is the cooperation with the Eulachhallen team and the authorities. Instead of putting obstacles in our way, we receive genuine support, for which I would like to thank everyone involved!
ZG: How well are the stand areas utilized?
PHK: We have not yet reached our target. However, as more registrations are coming in every day, we are confident that we will fill the hall completely. We assume that some exhibitors will only decide to take part at short notice now that the professionalism of the organization and communication is becoming apparent.
ZG: What are the main attractions that visitors can expect?
PHK: First and foremost, of course, are the exhibits at the various stands. As organizers, we also have a lot to offer: The original movie car from "The Fast and the Furious" or the TCS Mobile Test Center, where visitors and exhibitors can subject their vehicles to a short test. An ultrasonic cleaner from Ultraschallbad.ch and a paint care set from Mequiars will be raffled off among all visitors.
ZG: What about parking spaces?
PHK: In addition to the parking spaces in the Eulachhallen, visitors can also use the parking spaces on the Schützenwiese (football stadium).
ZG: Do visitors arriving in vintage cars enjoy any advantages?
PHK: Of course! We are very much looking forward to a museum on wheels! Old and youngtimers can park directly in front of the hall free of charge.
ZG: How does OTM Winterthur compare with OTM Fribourg or Retro Classic Stuttgart?
PHK: We want to be down-to-earth and, as we are classic car enthusiasts ourselves, we want to be close to the mechanic scene. We organize this event because we enjoy our hobby, and this should always be the main focus. An open orientation towards all "colors" of the hobby with the old sheet metal should promote a mixture of the audience. Whether youngtimer or pre-war owners, (still) dreamers or drivers, whether mechanics or collectors of automobilia - the focus should be on the joy and the commonality!
ZG: What else would you wish for OTM Winterthur if you met a fairy godmother?
PHK: That all those who have not yet registered as exhibitors would throw their reservations overboard, trust our concept, take a risk and book a stand! We know that not everything went perfectly in Winterthur in the past - but we are looking forward to a great event with lots of visitors!
Further and constantly updated information on OTM Winterthur can be found on the event website.
