2007 Events --> October 25, 2007
County welcomes first mall dedicated to autos and supply networks

Allen Park - Wayne County Executive Robert Ficano welcomed the staff of a new venture today, a business catering to the auto industry and those clamoring for a large selection of after-market supplies and engineering technology.

The Detroit International Auto Salon is a one-stop mall bringing an array of automotive goods under a single roof, items ranging from tires and wheels to engine products, suspension, braking systems, electronics, tools and car-care accessories. Auto firms, manufacturers and suppliers are the intended customers, but the public are invited to shop and learn, as well. The Auto Salon is located at 16630 Southfield, near the Interstate 94 interchange.

Wayne County has been instrumental in helping the Taiwanese firm locate in southeast Michigan. The firm's founder Eric Huang, Wayne County and the Wayne County Airport Authority have signed a memorandum of understanding to help forge a stronger relationship and to help pitch the Salon to broad corners of the USA, Canada and Mexico.

Mr. Ficano, a leader in the effort to recruit Chinese firms and entrepreneurs to southeast Michigan and to broaden the cultural links between the U.S. and foreign nations, said American businesses are eager to join alliances or to open markets overseas. He recently returned with a large trade delegation from a third trip to China. Because the world is closely linked economically, "shame on us if we don't take advantage of the opportunities," he said.

More information about the Detroit International Auto salon is available at detroitautosalon.com. Wayne County also offers more information about China and doing business both here and abroad at waynecountygatewaytochina.com. Updated trip information, first-person accounts and photographs will be posted soon.

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