The oldest ideas in marketing are the best.
    
Aerostitch, which makes fabric riding suits and other gear, set up an exhibition center in San Francisco for a 10-day period to showcase products and motorcycle gear. This was the first time the company has given customers a chance to see its gear before purchasing. The concept worked so well, a second exhibition center was set up for 10 days in Seattle.

"We are doing this pop-up store as an experiment," explained Mark Blohowiak, president of Aerostich. "We are trying to reach customers in different ways."

Andy Goldfine, the founder of Aerostich, points out that a brick and mortar shop has many advantages. "Garments need to be touched and felt. Customers have an opportunity to try rider’s gear on and understand the quality and features of these items."

He suggests that motorcycle dealers should take advantage of physical locations, and add value to what they sell. Customers want to interact with salespeople who share their interests and who can make helpful suggestions.

"This is marketing," says Blohowiak. "We feel customers value intimacy, and want to connect with other riders. This is one way of providing this opportunity."