That's a Wrap: U.S. Marines & Trucking Industry Complete Trailer Wrapping Project 4/13/2004
From: American Trucking Associations, 703-838-1700 ALEXANDRIA, Va., April 13 -- The popular U.S. Marine Corps-U.S. trucking industry trailer wrapping partnership enters a new phase with all 1,000 trucks wrapped and traveling the nation's highways. The final three trailers, each fully decaled with distinct U.S. Marine Corps images, were donated by Interstate Worldwide Relocation, Springfield, VA. Interstate enlisted in the project with 70 other motor carriers from all across the U.S. The American Trucking Associations (ATA) and the Marine Corps kicked off the effort in 2002 when, in the face of the ever- increasing cost of traditional billboard advertising, the Marines decided to form partnerships with national and regional trucking firms and use trailers as "rolling billboards" to deliver their unique message. Earlier ATA research has shown that truck side advertising can generate up to ten million viewer "impressions" a year. While the Corps counted on former Marines in the trucking business to jumpstart the project, it became very popular throughout the industry. ATA's initial call for 1,000 trailers prompted over 3,000 "volunteers" to carry the Marine Corps colors. It took an amazing juggling act by the decal manufacturer and applicator, Y3K Grafix of California, to spread the project equally and geographically. The Marine Corps provided the wraps and installation and will remove them after at least two years use on the road. "The 'rolling billboard' campaign continues to assist our recruiting efforts by increasing awareness about opportunities for young men and women to serve in the Corps," said Major General Christopher Cortez, commanding general of the Marine Corps Recruiting Command. "The Marine Corps is grateful to the ATA, whose members--among them a dedicated contingent of former Marines--have contributed greatly to our effort to bring the Marine Corps message to the public." "Our members and their professional truck drivers are today honored to carry the Marine Corps decals," said ATA spokesman Mike Russell, a former Marine. "It's their unique way of telling our young Marines now overseas that we're proud of them and will do our part by carrying the Marine Corps colors in support of their efforts." Editor's Note: Photos available on http://www.truckline.com |