MARKETING : Tuttle-Click Jeep Finds Sales Going Up With Ad on Mini-Helicopter

Sponsoring a sports event is a tried-and-true marketing technique, but the folks at Tuttle-Click Jeep in Irvine have taken the concept into new territory.

Paul Eigsti, an auto air-conditioning and electrical specialist at the car dealership, flies miniature 42-inch helicopters on weekends. Eigsti painted his employer’s name on the side of his helicopter--to the company’s benefit.

“The helicopter has been a great conversation piece,” said Rick Volpe, a sales training executive for Tuttle-Click. “And, yes, we’ve even sold a few cars as a result.”