Ghost Bikes has moved within Preston to a new 11,000sq.ft showroom in a £2million investment to complement its substantial online business. It is also looking at acquiring a further 7000sq.ft as a separate outlet store.
The new two-storey, open-plan premises provide more space for displaying the huge stock of helmets, clothing and motocross gear, plus a 120-seater café and parking for 200 to 300 cars out front.
“The site is really good because it’s on a biking route and it’s right next to the motorways so it is easily accessible,” said owner Adam Patel, who explained that Ghost Bikes’ customers come from the north-west and further afield.
Although well-known as an online retailer, Ghost Bikes had always had a physical presence. “We have done really well out of our showroom as we have got the stock behind us. With the amount of stock we carry – we have got a 45,000sq.ft warehouse and it’s full – we might as well display it rather than store it.
“In 2004 we started distributing and later selling mini-motos but then we started selling everyone else’s clearance, first off-road and then on-road products as well – premium brands. We brought out three own-brands – Black, Shox, and Agrius. We are constantly changing and diversifying.”
Ghost Bikes now employs 40, foresees that rising to 60 and is recruiting upper management “to make the team stronger”. It is also continuing to invest in its online operation.
A soft launch of the new Ghost Bikes showroom is planned for December.
Work is still ongoing but the full story appears in the December issue of BDN.