Note From The Owner
As we close out Wheelhouse’s 15th year of operation, I wanted to write up a quick wrap up. First of all, thank you to our amazing customers! We had overwhelmingly positive patron interactions this season, which was very appreciated after a couple of rough let’s-blame-it-on-the-COVID ones. We genuinely appreciate your kindness, gratitude, and continued support.
In good 2022 news, it’s amazing to witness the continued investment in cycling infrastructure in Detroit, Highland Park, and Hamtramck — led by the exciting and far-reaching Joe Louis Greenway. When we opened on the Riverfront in 2008, people asked us all the time: “Biking in Detroit? Really?” Now biking in Detroit is dare I say, mainstream, and I am here for it!
We were recognized with a Bicycle Retail Excellence Award for the 8th year running. To me, the component of this award that is most meaningful is the Secret Shopper that visits, emails, and calls then rates those interactions. This year we scored 91% in that category! We really do make a massive effort to offer professional and quality customer and repair service, so being seen in that regard by our trade association, the National Bicycle Dealers association, is super gratifying.
Like most small businesses, we are doing more with less people. The core team we had in place this year — led by the inimitable Tatiana — was effective, efficient, knowledgable, and friendly. It felt like family in the best possible way at the shop this year and customer feedback was at an all-time high. Thank you, thank you so very much from the bottom of my heart to the Wheelhouse Crew. I’m a lucky lady.
Of course, it wasn’t all great. We’re still struggling to dig ourselves out of the Hamtramck hole. We closed that shop at the end of 2019 — what a blessing in disguise was that timing! — but then came COVID. We missed part of our short 2020 season, are still dealing with supply chain issues (they’re better for sure, but repercussions to the industry as a whole are still being felt), and haven’t recouped corporate outings that were quite a significant revenue stream pre-pandemic.
Also, the landscape has changed significantly over the years, giving us a ton more competition. That’s not a complaint, but a realistic observation. We definitely have to hustle harder for our li’l piece of the pie!
This off-season Tatiana and I will be working on marketing and operations and gearing up for an even stronger 2023. Don’t forget, we are here for you by appintment all winter long for any of your cycling needs. Don’t hesitate to reach out — we’ll get back to you with the quickness.
In closing, we have a couple of exciting holiday shopping opportunities: a limited online apparel sale and Gift Card Bonus Bucks. Shop Wheelhouse this season! We would really value your support.
Appreciatively,
Kelli