BOULDER, Colo. (BRAIN) — Time is getting short to take part in the National Bicycle Dealers Association's sixth annual "America's Best Bike Shops" program. Applications to participate in the annual listing must be received by April 6.
Brandee Lepak, the association's board chair, said the web-based application process is easier than ever. "Our program asks dealers to answer a series of rigorous questions about their store, customer service and staff among others. Those dealers selected as among America's Best truly deserve the title," she said. The list of America's Best will be released at Interbike.
A new feature that further improves the process and boosts the program's stature is a requirement that applicants pay $125 for a Secret Shopper Report.
"It's no longer optional as in the past," Lepak said, noting that the NBDA's board of directors approved the change.
For most applicants, the Mystery Shopper is the most valuable tool they can use. A mystery shopper visits all applicants' stores — and applicants will then have access to the report.
"It's truly a bargain compared with hiring a secret shopper service directly," Lepak added.
The online application features an easy-to-use format. Dealers can answer questions, pause to do other things, and return to the site to complete it later. "This feature just makes it easier for dealers to take their time, research the questions, and answer them fully," Lepak said.
Dealers can click on a link, create a password, log-in, and fill out the application.
"We've continued to make the questions more relevant each year; there are fewer subjective questions and more objectivity, which helps improve the process. That ensures that those who qualify are among the industry's best," she added.
Application topics include:
• Customer service
• Knowledgeable staff
• Operational excellence
• Marketing excellence
• Community involvement
• Local bicycle advocacy
• National bicycle advocacy
• Shop appearance
• Mystery Shopper visit
The program's goal is to help educate retailers and raise the level of professionalism among IBDs.
For more information and to fill out the application visit: app.reviewr.com/site/NBDA-ABBS-2018.
