Friday, news-journal-online reported that ISC – International Speedway Corporation – had laid off 50 employees, some at the home office in Daytona Beach FL. ISC owns, among other things, twelve race tracks, MRN Radio, and Americrown Service Corporation. The cuts came at ISC, Daytona International Speedway and Americrown, but details were not made public.
WES HARRIS, Director of Investor Relations, said the layoff was confirmed only to allay any fears that ISC was in dire financial straits. “The last thing we wanted to do is lay off even one person. But we have a great business model, and we want to make sure we stay in a strong financial position.”
On 9 October 2008 ISC President LESA FRANCE KENNEDY reported the third quarter fiscal report. “We are pleased with our overall results for the third quarter when considering the impact of the continued economic slowdown on attendance- related revenues for our events. On a comparable event basis, which excludes the results of Auto Club Speedway’s fall NASCAR race weekend that is typically hosted in our fiscal fourth quarter, we posted year-over-year total revenues that were down slightly. In addition, our bottom line results benefited from our ongoing cost containment initiatives, with a particular focus on reducing general and administrative expenses.”
The economy has made it more difficult for NASCAR fans to attend races, but Phoenix International Raceway has a wide variety of pricing plans for those who want it up close and personal instead of TV. There is entry level first come, first serve unreserved RV camping space outside the track, for $60 – no tickets included. Reserved RV camping outside the track is $175 – no tickets. In the infield, there are two options for RV camping – Trackside front row for $600 and second row for $500 – no tickets included. The RV Vista camping on the backstretch is $3000 for the private gated community which requires a pass to enter – two tickets included. The top tier, literally and figuratively, is The Perch. This is on the hillside overlooking Turn Three. It costs $22,500 and is used for corporate hospitality and includes 36 tickets. The customer can also use its own signage and catering.