Sponsorship Discussion

deano · Joined: 13 Jun 2007 Posts: 6

Mark originally sent out an email that included these two requests:

1. URGENT - I need an idea of how many of you have purchased items at Williamson Bike Shop this year. Could you please let me know an APPROXIMATE dollar amount of what you spent since January? Also, if you referred any of your friends and family. If you sent someone there to purchase a new bike, for instance, knowing that would be VERY helpful. Having this information will assist us in retaining our discount from their store. If you haven't shopped there what has been the main reason why?

2. Thinking ahead to next years sponsors...what companies would you like to have discounts from??

deano · Joined: 13 Jun 2007 Posts: 6

I have spent about $800 at Willy since our sponsorship started. Before that I shopped almost exclusively at Machinery Row. I have sent 4 people there to look for their first real bike and 2 of them ended up getting bikes there.

I think the best sponsorship deal is a good bike shop deal - that really ends up being a money saver. Nutrition and specific gear deals are nice, but nothing like a shop deal. That and a good race clothing sponsor are all I really care about.

my 2 cents
Andy

deano · Joined: 13 Jun 2007 Posts: 6

I went to Willy to buy Zipp 808/404 wheelset with a PowerTap and NEVER heard back from them so my usage of Willy Street was soured by that experience.

I then went to WIly Street to look at a bike that Dave Staab had recommended and they treated me poorly.

Not my favorite store

Just my 2 cents....

Chad

deano · Joined: 13 Jun 2007 Posts: 6

I tend to agree with Andy. I used Williamson Bike Shop (both stores) extensively this year. Between all the tools, tires, tubes, pumps, bike maintenance/repair, pedals, clothing, accessories, training supplements, books/dvd's, etc., I estimate that I spent in the neighborhood of $1000.
I formed a nice rapport with a few of the guys that work there, and prefer the people there to Machinery Row or Erik's. They were always friendly and helpful, especially on short notice (i.e. the afternoon before Ironman). The downtown location works well for me too. Needless to say, I hope that Team Swimfast will be able to maintain its current relationship/arrangement with them. It was the single-most useful sponsorship for me.

Bob

deano · Joined: 13 Jun 2007 Posts: 6

I originally only responded to Mark, but maybe y'all want to hear on this one.

I've had a positive experience at Willy St. Previously it wasn't my shop of choice.

I've spent well over $500 there since Jan.

I've also sent a TON of people there. I know of several people who shopped for bikes based on my referral and several more who went there for the first time ever.

It's obviously a great discount, hate to lose it.

deano · Joined: 13 Jun 2007 Posts: 6

I spent about $2000.00. Was very happy with them. I usually go to the East side store. Their repair/tune up department personnel are very responsive and friendly.

Went to the downtown store just before the IM and they did a rush job on my bike for me.

Kevin

michele · Joined: 24 Dec 2006 Posts: 6

I haven't used the Williamson sponsorship at all. Had some very negative experiences with them several years ago, and don't feel the discount is worth giving them my business again. But I'm glad to hear that others have been having positive experiences.