JAA Autofest a Success Motorists line up for free services

The Jamaica Automobile Association (JAA) in partnership with the Insurance Association of Jamaica (IAJ) welcomed more than 250 motorists to its special Autofest, auto fair on Saturday June 11.

 

The one-day auto service event, held at the Central Avenue Headquarters of the JAA, was a hit with drivers and buyers who took advantage of the no-cost services such as—vehicle inspections, battery checks and, valuations, as well as a busy used car sales mart.

 

“This Autofest was a major success and has exceeded our expectations,” said Duane Ellis, General Manager of the JAA, at the end of the hectic day. “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 they request it. In addition, they could purchase a wide variety of motor vehicle products from JAA merchants who offered special discounts.

 

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

 

Orville Johnson, Executive Director of the IAJ was pleased with the event and hopes to see it replicated 

across the island in future.

 

“This is the kind of event that we want to repeat,” Mr. Johnson stated, “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.” 

 

Albert Henry, a patron said the event gave him a chance to receive a number of services that he would usually have to pay for, “My favourite feature was the vehicle inspection and I look forward to another like this in the future,” he added.

 

Many patrons were eager to participate in the defensive driving demonstrations, which were conducted by professional race car driver and instructor, Christopher McFarlane with the support of the JAA’s own Instructor.

 

“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,” Mr Ellis pointed out, “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 by sellers and buyers, with seven cars being sold on the spot.

 

“We also welcomed several new members, as patrons at the Autofest signed up for membership,” Mr Ellis added.

 

Guardsman Alarms Limited also used the Autofest to showcase its vehicle tracking technology which is available to JAA members free through an exclusive arrangement.