Powersports is a passion business. We are rapidly becoming a sizing chart and expertise center for the internet and U.S. purchases. I predict that in ten years chrome and paint stores like Thunder City Cycle will evolve into delivery, installation, and service depots for internet sales. The new riders prefer to shop and interact on line versus hanging and swapping stories at a bike shop. I am not being critical or judgmental; merely stating facts and trying to foresee the future.
As a result of the global economic factors, manufacturers continue to put unrealistic pressure and requirements on the dealer network, which further erodes what was once a solid business plan. Couple that with kill shots from uncaring, vicious "business partners" like Victory, crazy increases in building lease costs, and the challenge becomes even more daunting.
Staffing issues continue to challenge every business in this province. Finding good people who care, think like the boss and own customer issues are hard to come by. Especially considering that the powersports business is very specialized and can't afford to pay "oil field wages". I believe Thunder City Cycle was largely blessed by a team of people who did their best every day in every way. For that core teams hard work, dedication, and input I am truly grateful. They know who they are and so do you as customers.
Then there is the weather - need I say more.
Why do we in business rely on slamming the competition to make ourselves look better? Having said that I appreciate the positive business relationships that we enjoyed with Prairie Motorcycle, Raw Power, Reed Leisure and Open Road.
Now for the rumour mill, which is a constant deterrent, annoyance, hurtful, yet ever present entity. According to the rumour mill we have been closing since we opened the doors seven years ago. Why do we engage in this activity? Whats wrong with good news and a positive out look? The world is full of critics and arm chair quarter backs, 99% of which have not paid their dues or have the qualifications to comment. The challenge for all of us is to decide if we want to step up into the 1% that make a difference or sit back and criticize those that do. We must remember that rumours and comments not thought through, can affect ones pride, lively hood, reputation and be taken very personally.
Thunder City Cycle was sold as a part of a conscious business decision. It is a solvent business and the bills were paid. I released Kawasaki, and applaud Ducati's approach in allowing dealers to sell and recover the hard work that is put into building a local following to a brand with such heritage and culture. That being said I wish to congratulate Mark Loeppky, president of the FFUN Group in Saskatoon for having the foresight and vision to adopt the Ducati Brand, and keep it strong and growing in Saskatchewan.
All things considered, I saw the writing on the wall - and took heed. Once again I would like to thank business partners, staff, customers and the local motorcycle clubs and organizations we have been proud to associate our name with.
Stay tuned for the next chapter.
Al
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The staff and managment would like to thank all of our customers and friends that have supported us over the years. The dealership has been sold and we sincerely wish the best for our customer base, the brands we represented and our loyal staff.
Please stay tuned to the website for further details. :)
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