Festival organisers announced an impressive 24,522 visitors this year, with 88 industry-related exhibitors, 16 motorcycle manufacturers, 13 popular SA bands/musicians and 21 hospitality brands and food trucks.
Together with headline media partner, Discovery Channel, and festival sponsors Tiger Wheel & Tyre, ABI, SAB, Cartrack, Sun International, The Star Motoring, Michelin, Dunlop, Tissot and Monster Energy, the event welcomed visitors with the intention to ensure the festival becomes a must-attend annual motorcycle showcase in Southern Africa for decades to come. Organisers say this objective has been met with over 50% of the existing manufacturers and exhibitors already securing their participation for 2017.
Extensive research was conducted to profile the festival visitors using online surveys and at-event questionnaires. An independent research team from Tourism Research in Economic Environs & Society (TREES) concluded that the majority of respondents were in their late thirties, 67% of which were male, 22% were from outside Gauteng and over 68% attended with children under the age of twelve. It was particularly noted that visitor numbers were above average in the growing segments of the market including women, families, the emerging market and young professionals.
The number one reason for attending the festival was to enjoy a fun day out with the family, and for 15%, their main priority was about capitalising on festival discounts, special offers and browsing for a new motorbike or scooter to purchase. 39% of respondents bought merchandise at the festival and 12% of survey participants bought a new or pre-owned motorcycle at the festival or in the months following. Finally, the majority (97%) of respondents said they intend to visit the festival again in 2017.
Nicole Muller, festival director states: “Our long term aim is to create a sustainable, annual and internationally recognised brand that will bring together the veteran riders to casual fans alike in order to encourage and grow the next generation of motorcyclists in Southern Africa. We are delighted that Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit share our vision and will be the venue partner for the next three years on this exciting journey. By building on the partnerships created in 2016, as well as introducing more lifestyle elements, we intend to become South Africa’s annual and premier motorcycle, music and lifestyle festival.”
Check out the official website for details.
