As the operator of a cycle hire business, Diamond Cycle Centre, Steve Diamond recognised that there was a need to reach potential customers in the area in order to ensure that they were aware of his new business.
Reaching your customers
The business was listed on the Borders Bike Kit, a tool to support businesses with useful information and promotional tools to help them attract cyclists.
The bike hire was also included in the itineraries which were produced for the long distance cycling routes passing through Galashiels: the Borderloop, Tweed Cycle Way and the Coast and Castles Route.
Research shows that cyclists spend some time planning a trip and any help a destination can provide in providing information on where to eat, visit, fix your bike and sleep will be much appreciated. These itineraries contain all this information for each route.
In addition to providing bike hire, Steve also offers a further useful service of dropping off and picking up bikes. This appeals to both accommodation businesses and individual cyclists as it allows them to access cycling more easily.
Steve says of his initial foray into tourism:
"My background is not in tourism however I recognise the importance of engaging with the local tourism community to raise awareness of the services we offer. The cycling project has provided a useful helping hand in helping us to raise awareness both to the local businesses and also to potential visitors."