Bikefest a Success in Lake Ozark

 

Joe Homan owner of the Orchid Motel sense 1973. “Bikefest is the single biggest week for our motel, it tops Memorial, 4th of July and Labor Day weekends. I have a 90% increase in room occupancy for the week of Bikefest! This year we had some cancellations due to repeat visitors not realizing the City of Lake Ozark made last minute arrangements to allow the use of the center lane. Many didn’t get the word and therefore didn’t come, however, our motel stayed full.”  He suggested we work with the Village of Four Seasons to make sure the event is not the same weekend as the annual Garage Sale.

 

Steve Head owner of Head Motor Company of Columbia MO whose territory stretches from Mexico, MO to Lebanon MO with Lake Ozark right in the middle stated he “sold 20 bikes with 3-4 more still in the paperwork process” from the Bikefest event. Steve says the city didn’t require a fee to be paid for his vendor space located at Marine Max’s upper parking area but that he “would be glad to pay a fee in the future.”

 

Long time Strip business owner Mike Page who has been instrumental in revitalizing many events on the Historic Strip stated that “20% of the Leatherman’s annual revenue is generated on Bikefest week.”

 

Adam Gier Vice President of Eldon based Gier Oil Company who owns and operates 50 Eagle Stops throughout Missouri with approx. 15 of those in Camden, Miller and Morgan Counties said this… “Our fuel stops are prepared for Bikefest well in advance as we know Bike enthusiasts will want premium fuel for their bikes. We make sure that all of our stores have plenty of extra premium fuel on hand” In addition, Adam stated that although he could not give an exact % he was certain his stores in the 3 lake area counties see a tremendous increase in fuel as well as in store purchases for what would normally be just a regular fall week.” Finally he pointed out that he “sees increases in sales from stores over an hour away from the Lake as Bikefest attendees start rolling into Missouri from other states.”

 

Local Restaurateur George Tucker owner of Tucker’s Shuckers and the Neon Taco both located on the Historic Bagnell Dam Strip stated that his business “had a 30% increase in sales from a typical fall week.” He noted that he supported all events held within the city limits of Lake Ozark.

 

I know it takes a lot of time and work to have events especially ones as successful as Bikefest. With such positive feedback and results, it’s certainly all worth it. I want to again extend my congratulations to everyone and a special thanks to our city staff that stepped up when needed for the additional center lane parking and those that helped make this event safe for our visitors.