Bristol businesses are being urged to give their branding and reputation a unique lift by joining the city’s International Balloon Fiesta 100 Club.
The prestigious club’s 2012 launch earlier this week, staged at Cameron Balloons headquarters in Bedminster, highlighted the benefits of membership.
For an investment of just £2,000, member businesses receive a package of valuable benefits including corporate hospitality, balloon flight vouchers, brand advertising and VIP tickets to the event, which runs from August 9-12.
Potential members invited to the breakfast launch were given an exclusive behind-the-schemes tour of Cameron Balloons, the world’s largest hot air balloon manufacturer where they got the chance to see how the firm hand makes its famous products.
The firm employs 32 people making about 130 hot air balloons a year plus inflatables ranging from giant footballs to a 55-metre tall Japanese superhero. A basic, traditional-shaped balloon costs around £25,000.
Bristol Balloon Fiesta organising committee chairman Chris Hathaway said: “The shared experience of hot air ballooning, for example between a business and its clients provides real business benefits at very low cost and provides a very relaxed and informal platform away from the office where they can meet.
“The 100 Club provides companies with a considerable return on investment for an outlay that is modest for even small businesses.”
The Fiesta, which is in its 34th year and is free to attend, has become a major tourist attraction recognised as one of the UK ’s top five outdoor events. Last year it attracted around 500,000 visitors, injecting millions of pounds into the local economy.
For more information about the Fiesta 100 Club contact Ben Hardy on (0117) 953 5884 or visit www.bristolballoonfiesta.co.uk.
