Suzuki’s efforts to rebuild its dealer network have borne fruit, with Powerslide Suzuki opening in Stoke on Trent. The new business plugs one of several gaps in Suzuki GB’s network, and the nearest existing dealer is Single Tracker at Crewe, 15 miles away.
“Suzuki have been brilliant, very helpful,” said Powerslide’s co-owner Brad Clarke, who was a pro-footballer before turning to the bike trade. “The opportunity came up, we spoke to Jonathan [Martin] at Suzuki and it’s all happened quite quickly.”
The dealership is on Preston Road in Stoke, close to Ducati Stoke. With two showrooms and a fully equipped workshop, it should be able to cope with new and used sales – Lexmoto small bikes and scooters will be sold in addition to Suzuki. An ex-Norton and Aprilia technician has just signed up to work on servicing, MOTs and tyres. A clothing department will feature Richa, Shark and LS2 and Powerslide will also be selling Scorpion exhausts.
“We’re one of the first fresh start-ups for Suzuki,” added Brad Clarke, “so the manufacturer has shown a lot of faith in us. We’re well known locally and I think we’ll do well. Our aim is to give customers an excellent and exciting experience.”
More details in the July issue of BDN – your best source of dealer news.