Fisher Powersports welcomed about 250 visitors from across the Interlake region to Fisher Branch on June 6 for the dealership’s Open House and Demo Day, generating strong interest in Kawasaki’s off-road lineup and creating a community event that drew riders, families and first-time buyers alike.
Powersports enthusiasts and families gathered at Fisher Powersports in Fisher Branch on June 6 for the dealership’s annual Open House and Demo Day. Visitors had the opportunity to test ride a variety of Kawasaki models, take advantage of one-day-only discounts and enjoy giveaways throughout the day
Visitors travelled from communities including Gimli, Winnipeg Beach, Teulon, Stonewall and Stony Mountain. Interlake clubs affiliated with the All-Terrain Vehicle Association of Manitoba (ATVMB) were also on hand to provide demonstrations and information throughout the day.
Donovan Plett of Fisher Powersports said the event was designed to increase awareness of both the dealership and the Kawasaki brand, which he said often receives less attention than larger competitors such as Polaris and Can-Am.
Visitors had the opportunity to view and test-drive several Kawasaki machines while enjoying a free barbecue lunch, children’s inflatables and one-day-only sales promotions.
“I think events like these are crucial. Not only from a business point of view, as we sold quite a few units on Saturday, but also from a community involvement point of view. Especially in a smaller town like Fisher Branch, where there already is not very many things going on for the residents to participate in,” said Plett.
Plett said local businesses often play an important role in attracting people to smaller communities.
“If we can involve our own town in events like this where people from other towns are coming out and mingling, it’s great!” said Plett.
Among the most popular machines were the Kawasaki Ridge side-by-side lineup and the midsize Brute Force 450 ATV. Plett said the Ridge’s enclosed, air-conditioned cab was particularly appealing during the hot and dusty weather conditions.
Fisher Powersports opened in 2016 with an inventory of just a few machines.
“Now if our inventory drops below 45 units, we feel like we are running out of machines,” said Plett.
He attributes part of the dealership’s growth to its customer-focused approach and the staff’s passion for off-road riding.
“We’re not the stereotypical “suit and tie” salesmen. Everyone in our shop either owns a machine, or loves to ride in the evenings and weekends,” said Plett.
He added that seeing customers on local trails and connecting with them outside the dealership helps build lasting relationships.
In addition to carrying Kawasaki’s full off-road lineup, Fisher Powersports employs Kawasaki-trained technicians who service and maintain the machines they sell.
Looking ahead, the dealership hopes to expand into a larger showroom to accommodate additional inventory and display space, as well as future Kawasaki models.
Plett also hopes the open house becomes an annual event.
“We were so happy with the way this event turned out, we won’t be changing anything, and would love to do it again in the years to come… bigger and better,” said Plett.
