ABC has been involved in balloon sales since 1987. During that time we have managed many balloon design projects and the balloon cost is based on the design, size and shape of the balloon itself. We use our expertise to ensure that our Clients get the best value from their investment. We work very closely with Bristol based Cameron Balloons, who are the largest hot air balloon manufacturer in the world, to ensure that your own hot air balloon faithfully reproduces the product, image, or logo of your Company, offers the best value for money and gives the excellent operational benefits.
A Round balloon with stunning artwork can be a show-stopper and has the ability to carry passengers - TV, media, guests, personalities, prize-winners and staff. A Special Shape hot air balloon is more likely to grab the attention of Social Media, TV and the Public, so campaign messages should be limited to brand advertising and response mechanisms. It is possible, during a hot air balloon campaign, to change limited amounts of artwork on a balloon; especially through the use of tailor made banners, attached by Velcro, which can be used to add #yourballoonmessage
The artwork can be sewn on top of the main balloon fabric - appliqué - or cut in to the original balloon envelope, to save weight and ensure an authentic colour match to exiting logos and artwork. It is also possible to reproduce a full colour photographic image, using a massive ink-jet printer which prints the individual panels of the balloon. A good example of this would be the Clairol balloon which we commissioned for Procter & Gamble.
Big and Bold hot air balloon branding, creates the best advertising impact.
A balloon comprises two parts: the envelope (the fabric part of the balloon) and the bottom end (the basket, burner and ancillary equipment). The balloon is then classified by its envelope size. Balloons are measured per '000 cubic feet, so a size 77 balloon has a total volume of 77,000 cubic feet. As the volume is increased, the number of passengers capable of being carried increases. A Round, 77,000 cu. ft. balloon envelope costs from £15,000 + Artwork. A Special Shape can cost from £50,000 - 150,000 - anything is possible!
Size 31-56 Capable of carrying just the pilot, branded balloons of this size are cheap to produce and provide a great solution for companies looking to do short term contracts, or are working on tight budgets. Perfect for guerrilla marketing, or as a back -up to a full size Special Shape balloon.
Size 65-105The most common size of advertising balloon, capable of carrying the pilot and between 2 and 4 passengers. This size of balloon provides the perfect balance between passenger carrying capabilities and initial construction cost.
Size 120+ Balloons of this size are designed primarily for their passenger carrying capabilities. Able to fly up to 5 people at a time, ABC has its own un-branded 120 which is used for Film & TV, Corporate guests and fare-paying passengers at large balloon festivals.
Hot air balloons are annually checked by a Civil Aviation Inspector, to confirm their Continuing Airworthiness and safety. On average a balloon will last around 300 hours, which equates to around 4-5 years of commercial use.
