Ballooning as promotion and corporate identity

Ballooning events are held throughout the United States, and unlike NASCAR or drag racing it is an up close, touch and feel, no rules or fences, hands on sport. The balloons move at the mercy of mother nature allowing hundreds of thousands of spectators to enjoy their massive and distinct beauty. In Albuquerque, New Mexico each October, 750 balloons gather for nine days to participate in the world’s largest annual balloon event. In 2002, 1,000,000 people came through the gates to watch the most successful Fiesta to date. Sponsorship for this event is very lucrative because of the 30 plus hours of television coverage, and it is deemed the most still photographed event in the world. Companies like General Motors, Eveready, BDS, Intel, AAA Auto club, Bacardi, Hershey’s, and many others use balloons as huge marketing tools to help make their businesses successful.

La Ristra is a unique hot air balloon, which makes it very photogenic. During The 2002 Fiesta in Albuquerque, La Ristra had over two hours of television time including CNN and the Early Show. It is also in the October 2002 New Mexico magazine, and the 2003 and 2004 Balloon Fiesta calendars.

Balloon programs are very lucrative to many businesses. The programs are cost effective, and compared to auto racing, and national advertising, are very inexpensive. How many company representatives get to ride in a NASCAR race? Or a drag race? A company spends millions to sponsor a car program, and visibility is based on if they win or crash. One of the marketing strategies of a balloon program is to give prospective clients or customers rides in the balloon at these huge events drawing all the spectators. Not only is the logo visible on the balloon, and resembles a product, but the client is being treated to a ride many people would not get to do in their lifetime. How many people could miss a 128 foot tall flying billboard that moves at an average of three miles per hour?! It is as tall as a twelve story building. La Ristra is transported in a twelve foot trailer which also can be used as a rolling billboard. Flying Chili Peppers Balloon Co. also has a regular shape 90,000 cubic foot sport balloon, and a 17-foot tall remote control balloon both having banner capabilities making your balloon program a complete package.

La Ristra is a one of a kind, eye catching aerostat that demands attention at any event around the United States.

Attached is a summary of the available equipment and merchandising opportunities associated with the La Ristra Hot Air Balloon.