An inexpensive way to attract consumers

A dealership in Appleton, Wis., was approached by the state’s Department of Natural Resources (DNR) about an easy, inexpensive way to get consumers into their store.

A DNR office closed just south of the dealership, Appleton Powersports. The office was a validation station where riders got their vehicle Field ID numbers, which consumers need to legally ride.

After the DNR’s inquiry, Appleton Powersports agreed to become a validation station.

Since adding the program, Appleton General Manager Mike Catlin says they’ve seen an increase in floor traffic as well as PG&A and vehicle sales. In addition to an increase in business, the DNR compensates the dealership for handling the transactions. Plus, the dealership is listed on the Wisconsin state Web site as a validation location, which is essentially free advertising. It has worked out so well that last month the dealership became a full DNR registration station, which allows the dealership to issue registration stickers on the spot for consumers.

Have you done anything like this? How has it worked out?

For more about Appleton Powersports, see the Aug. 9th issue of Powersports Business.