Huntington Place, Detroit's riverfront convention center formerly known as Cobo, hosts the Detroit Auto Show and SAE WCX. Michigan repealed its right-to-work law in 2024 and Detroit's union traditions run deep, so knowing the jurisdictions here isn't optional. The upside is that this building is built for heavy, high-power exhibits.
Key venues: Huntington Place.
Marquee shows: Detroit Auto Show, SAE WCX.
Michigan repealed right-to-work in 2024. Detroit is a union town. Teamsters handle freight and IBEW electricians handle power at Huntington Place.
Is our AV equipment union compliant at Huntington Place?
Yes, with the trades respected. Teamsters move freight, carpenters and decorators set structures, and electrical work belongs to IBEW electricians through the official contractor. Your staff placing your own displays and plugging them into your pre-ordered outlet is standard exhibitor work.
Did Michigan's right-to-work repeal change anything for exhibitors?
The repeal took effect in 2024 and restored union security agreements. On the show floor the practical effect is continuity, since Huntington Place was union-served before and after. Expect show kits to spell out labor rules explicitly and enforce them.
How much does drayage cost at Huntington Place?
Per-CWT with minimums through the show's general contractor. Auto-adjacent shows involve unusually heavy freight and the venue's crews are practiced at it, but heavy uncrated pieces carry special-handling premiums. Crate everything you can.
What's the power situation for big AV loads?
Better than most venues. The building is provisioned for auto-show-scale exhibits, so high-amperage drops for LED walls and demo equipment are routine. All connections run through the electrical contractor. Order by the advance deadline with your real load calculated.
Who rigs overhead screens and signage in Detroit?
Overhead work is rigger and stagehand jurisdiction through the show's contractor, with plans submitted in advance. Lit or powered overhead elements add the electricians. Budget for both trades or go ground-supported.
Anything unusual about move-in at Huntington Place?
The dock complex sits along the Detroit River, with marshalling that stages trucks off-site during big shows. January's auto show move-in means winter weather planning for freight. Use the advance warehouse rather than direct-to-show shipping.
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