Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/274927
8 • March 17, 2014 • Powersports Business NEWS www.PowersportsBusiness.com www.PowersportsBusiness.com NEWS Powersports Business • March 17, 2014 • 9 Show-only specials for dealers part of plans The American International Motorcycle Expo (AIMExpo) announced that Marshall Distrib- uting, a wholesale distributor of ATV, motor- cycle, PWC, snowmobile and UTV parts in addition to motorsports apparel, has signed on to become one of the event's newest distribut- ing exhibitors. Marshall Distributing executives visited AIMExpo last October and saw the event's success first hand. Now the company joins as an exhibitor and will interact directly with members of the trade, media and consumer segments of the powersports industry while also hosting members of its dealer network. Marshall Distributing owner and founder Winners of the 2014 Powersports Business Nifty 50 contest for aftermarket parts and gear and dealer services are tak- ing their promotional efforts to a new level. Many winners immediately turned to social media and company e-newsletters to promote their winning prod- ucts. Facebook and Twitter posts were the most common promotional outlets that companies used to tout their status. Several also sent out press releases to get national distribution about their winning products. "Nifty 50 winners took to social and electronic media this year in ways we've haven't seen in recent years," Powersports Business editor in chief Dave McMa- hon said. "We're excited to see the energy and excite- ment that the winning companies are showing as they spread the word about their products. Those efforts will go a long way in driving customers into dealer- ships. We had a record number of entries in 2014, and we're already looking forward to seeing innovative products that can help dealers grow their business for the 2015 contest." Editors from Powersports Business, and its sister pub- lications in the industry (Rider, Snow Goer and Thunder Press) select the products and services annually in the Nifty 50. PSB PROUD PROMOTERS Marshall Distributing commits to AIMExpo Yamaha signs with AIMExpo The American International Motorcycle Expo (AIMExpo) and Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA, announced Yamaha has signed on as the first OEM participant of the 2014 event, sched- uled for Oct. 16-19 at Orlando's Orange County Convention Center. Yamaha was the first OEM to commit to last year's inaugural AIMExpo and following a successful first year, the brand is looking to expand its presence in the 2014 event. AIMExpo's groundbreaking format offers exhibitors direct interaction with powersports trade, media and consumer attendees. With a significant presence in 2013, Yamaha showcased product in the event's innovative Media Hub in front of the large attending press contingent, while inviting consumers and members of the industry to test ride the latest Yamaha models. "Two-wheels, four-wheels, indoors and out- doors, the AIMExpo format was a much needed shot in the arm for the industry and we consider it to be an absolute success and the future for our industry," said Bob Starr, general manager of communications at Yamaha. "There is great value in the strong foundation the Marketplace Events team has built in the AIMExpo platform, and we are looking forward to leveraging it to greater advantage in 2014." Yamaha's range of class-leading products is known for its diversity for both on- and off-road riding. At AIMExpo, the company presented its Yamaha and Star brands, and integrated itself into the event with unique promotions like the Star Bolt Custom Build Off by recognizing bike builders inside the Media Hub as well as featuring each finalist's creation on the show floor. Further showcasing the Star line was the one-off Kenny Roberts replica Star Bolt motorcycle that was given to one lucky winner in AIMExpo's 3-Way Giveaway promo- tion. Outside, at AIMExpo Outdoors!, dealers and consumers alike were afforded the oppor- tunity to take Yamaha motorcycle, ATV and Viking SxS products for a test ride. "Yamaha successfully utilized AIMExpo as the grand stage for motorcycle and powers- ports business in North America, and leveraged the setting to the fullest extent," commented Larry Little, vice president & general manager, Motorcycle Group. "Their intent to do even more in 2014 is a tremendous complement to the AIMExpo program that targets every facet of the powersports marketplace and provides an ideal time and environment to introduce the newest products to the world." PSB P01x09-PSB4-NEWS.indd 8 3/5/14 11:29 AM