Customers welcomed as family at Suzuki weekend get-together
The tourism industry is being beaten to a pulp, and though this is not the focus of this article, the knock-on effect is horrendous.
The fall-off from larger and more exclusive tourism suppliers do not necessarily benefit smaller and local suppliers, as Covid-19 protocols apply the same limits to everyone.
This weekend brought about 100 bikers to Hotel Numbi in Hazyview. Eighty were from various parts of the country and about 20 were local and day riders from the Lowveld. The reason: a Suzuki customer weekend away.
“We have found tremendous success with this concept. It is not a product launch. No, customers pay and join us at a country venue. It handles all the formalities and costs, and we design and facilitate an interesting riding and entertainment programme for the weekend.
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Children are welcome. It allows us as brand representatives – together with our spouses and family – some authentic and personal time with our customers. It really does create wonderful one-on-one heart-to-heart interactions, which cement current and new relationships. And quality relationships are what has kept our business moving forward despite the stock, economic and Covid-19 challenges,” said Stewart Baker of Suzuki.
“The fact that 60% of participants at this event had been to previous events, confirm our philosophy about relationships – we are family!
“The bulk of our sales, though, comes from the commercial delivery bike sector and this is growing. We brought the new Suzuki Hayabusa to this weekend, too, but it is just for display. The demand for this bike is excellent and we should be okay in terms of stock.
“This type of event is about family, building relationships, having fun, winning prizes and introducing people to interesting and beautiful parts of the country.
“And of course, it is good for the brand,” concluded Stewart.
