Note to Businesses: Target Market to Cyclists!!

I was reading one of the links that Mighk gave in one of the comments to Keri’s post on “smart advocacy” and what the Borough of Hackney (in London) is doing with their cycling plan.

It’s a good read. I really liked the examples of cycling advocates forming coalitions with other groups such as Environmental, Health, Transportation, Economics, Society/Community and Crime/Safety.

I think they may have missed one, though. Business.

It occurs to me that many retailers, restaurants and other service businesses don’t see cyclists as a market. And that’s just a missed opportunity.

These tough economic times are having an impact on how people travel — using their cars less and making fewer long(ish) trips. Merchants and eateries therefore derive much of their business from people who live within a few miles.

What about a marketing campaign aimed at cyclists, saying something like this: “Come and see us!! We are less than 5 miles away (have a map showing business location and neighborhoods within 5 mile radius) — You don’t have to drive, just bicycle up to (name of business) where you can park your bike in our secure bike rack. Show us your bike (or bike helmet) and get 15% off!!”

I mentioned retailers and restaurants. But other types of businesses, such as movie theaters, could benefit from such a campaign. Heck, even a mall developer could roll out such a campaign on behalf of its tenants.

Would it work? Would you ride your bike to a local business that made you an offer like this? Would your neighbors, who only occasionally get on their bikes?

To my way of thinking, it’s another step toward creating a cycling culture in our community.

Your thoughts??