Many auto dealers use all sizes of balloons to get your attention. They create a fun environment - almost party like and let's face it, would you be more likely to visit the place that looks alive or the so-so dealership with the salespeople in puddles around the doors?
The single car balloon
The standard 17" balloon should last about a day if the temperatures are less than 90 degrees - Average cost varies from $29.00 to $44.00 gross (144 count). All latex balloons are not equal in quality. The top two brands in the US are Tuff-tex and Pioneer - I have dealers that swear by both brands, so I'd suggest you try both brands and choose. Pioneer balloons have a rounder base and Tuff-tex seem to be easier to tie string onto. To make your float time on your balloons longer, there is a product called Hi-Float. It's a thick, gooey liquid that squish around inside the balloon and it coats the pores making float time longer. This is especially cost effective if you are using 5 to 6 foot latex balloons. If you are using the larger latex balloons, pulling them down at night, tying them to something close to the ground, will also help conserve helium. Any latex balloons should be stored in an air-conditioned space and the oldest latex balloons should be used first. The shelf life is approximately a year.
Want balloons that will last longer?
The 6 foot Cloudbuster is a balloon made from chloroprene; average cost $33.00 to $50.00 - this balloon will save you money in helium because it floats anywhere from 2 days to 14 days. This option is one of the most popular with auto dealers. The optional pennant line which is about $16.00, works well with the Cloudbuster. For big reusable balloons, here are the top two - vinyl and PVC. Dealers love both.
The 6 foot Re-Usable vinyl balloon comes with a repair kit and tether line and the balloon itself has a shine to it. Prices vary from $169.00 to $199.00 for the 6 foot version. Once you fill this balloon, you bring it down at night, re-launch and top the helium off once weekly. This will save you a TON in helium. The downfall to this balloon is the wind, trees and power lines. If you are located in a windy area, I would suggest you go with the 7 foot balloon. It handles wind better.
