Cater more to motorcyclists to reap financial benefit, say MCIA

The Motorcycle Industry Association believe more focus should be given to motorcycling with regard to the UK tourism industry, after a survey carried out by GHK revealed motorcycle-related tourism expenditure in the UK is around £569million.

The survey found that the average motorcycle tourist is spending around £380 a year, taking into account food, drink accommodation and other services, and the MCIA believe that providing secure parking, advertising as bike-friendly, and extending promotion in the right areas could easily increase the number of motorcyclists and capitalise on a growing market.

23,000 international riders visit the UK compared to around 100,000 riders from the UK who take motorcycling trips abroad each year, and the MCIA think with the right promotion and marketing there is a lot of potential to attract more from abroad, as well as catering to riders from the UK.

Steve Kenward, MCIA’s CEO said, “This survey has shown us that the UK tourist industry is making important financial gains from motorcyclists.

“At the moment, there are certain areas in the UK that are seeing bigger gains, but there is a huge untapped market for the tourist industry to tap into.

“We should be looking to attract more overseas visitors as well as improving the ‘tourist’ experience for British motorcyclists.

“Providing secure parking, offering discounts for groups, creating links with sporting events and generally offering a bike- friendly environment will lead to longer stays, more spending and happier customers.”

The South West is currently getting the most out of motorcycle tourism; receiving 17.3% of the total spend.