Continuing #365DaysOfKegelHD where yesterday left off with the 1998 Dealernews Top 100 #1 Dealer profile article...
"I've been here through Grandpa, Dad and the kids," he [72-year-old Rockford resident Bill Maxey] says proudly, conceding somewhat reluctantly that the service has increased and improved over the years. "With the move, they went from a hole in the wall to a very exclusive establishment." That bit of praise pried out of him, the best this man of few words can say for the food at the diner is, "It's all right."
Catering To The Shopper
Step from the '50s-style Kegel's Diner, with its antique motorcycle display and wall of photos showing proud customers with their mounts, into the store you'll see why people want to shop here. Carole works hard to keep displays of motorcycles, accessories and clothing fresh; often looking to the malls for inspiration.
"It takes a lot of energy to keep things moving in a store this size," she says. "But it's worth it because I know customers carry an impression with them. When they come in, they say, 'Wow! What a place.'"
Just before the Christmas season last year, the Kegels dedicated 1,700 sq./ft. to their customers of the future. KIDZ WORLD occupies a mezzanine area and is filled with Harley-Davidson children's clothing and toys. "It's been really popular," Mel says. "We tried to make it appealing to kids and their parents. It's upstairs because, for some reason, kids love to go up stairs. It also helps to keep kids contained where their parents can watch them while they shop for themselves."
For the last 10 years, the Kegels have kicked off the holiday shopping season with an annual fall champagne party that includes big sales, hors d'oeuvres, drinks and a limo that brings people to and from remote parking lots. The store is open until 10 p.m., employees dress up in suits and evening dresses, and Santa even makes an appearance. "Last year, we drew more than 400 people," Mel says proudly.
Stay tuned for more tomorrow!
Middle-Left photo: Carole Egler (left), Mel Kegel and Karl Kegel accepting the 1998 Dealernews Top 100 Grand Prize award.
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More Fun
This dedicated family dealership long ago put its name on the motorcycling map, cementing it with the Top 100 Grand-Prize win earlier this year. Grandpa Joe would be proud his vision from eight decades ago is still going strong.
The Kegel Kids have created a dynamic atmosphere with a lot to see and do. "It's a fun place to come," Karl says. So if you should ever find yourself on I-90 between Chicago and Milwaukee, stop in for a burger... and stay for the fun.
Bottom left caption: The on-site Diner helps make Kegel Motorcycle Co. a true destination dealership.
Bottom right caption: "Stop in for a burger, stay for the fun," is Karl Kegel's motto.
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