- Joined
- Nov 29, 2013
- Messages
- 798
I have just been informed that South Bay Norton is the new US distributor!!!
What happened to Van Epps?
What happened to Van Epps?
BPHORSEGUY said:They need to expand the dealer base to promote the brand. Maybe Van Epps couldn't or wouldn't. In any case I think this is great news!
TonyA said:This is my take on it. Dealers don't want any trouble from the brands they carry, first . Second , they need the bikes to sell so they can make some money . Finally , A dealer can't rely on Norton to keep them afloat on its own because so few bikes are sold. The dealer already has to be doing a good business with other brands preferably an exotic brand like Ducati etc.. The reason Matt Capri makes sense is because he already has South Bay to feed him and he can open his belt another couple of notches for the US Distributorship ( He was the first distributor anyway). Norton distribution will only enhance his business. The reason he had trouble in the beginning with Norton is because he couldn't get bikes shipped fast enough from Norton (huskyfreak comes to mind) . Now that the demand has slowed (if it has slowed) , If he only distributes 12 bikes this year no big deal he lives on South Bay business in the meantime. Van Epps probably couldn't earn a living on the distribution proceeds , that is all .. Once the word gets out how special these Norton's are , easy to work on , good handling , good performance and that pride of ownership they will succeed ...!
richard-7 said:Peter (CDN DISTRIBUTOR) is soooooo passionate about the BRAND it is truly amazing. He put in a a lot of thought when bringing the bikes in. Some things to make his job easier and some to make the owners really happy. I wont give examples but you can call him if you want more info. If there is a problem with a bike, Norton UK WILL take care of it. Lets help keep the brand alive and stay positive. Imagine this was your company and how hard it must be to take care of everything.... but eventually it is taken care of. Every customers issue is the most important to them at that time. Anyone in manufacturing will understand this the most.
Lets hope that there are many discussions and investigations and meetings first before selecting dealers. Make sure these dealers are up to the task or this will fail miserably.