pre-tradeshow #2 – Vicki from RollerBonesmaker of Bones Team, Elite, Bones Swiss, and much more

We are doing a series of interviews with different vendors as they get ready to come to our annual tradeshow (Oct 1-2, Roanoke VA, wholesale only, not for the general public).    We did one with Roller Derby yesterday, and today we have Vicki Handyside from Roll One/RollerBones.

 

Q:  How are things at Roll One as the fall season gets ready to start?

Vicki:  The RollerBones wheels and Bones/RollerBones bearings are doing quite well. We are very pleased with the way sales are heading into fall and closing out the 2018 Skating Season.

 

Q:  How do you see the skating market right now?

Vicki:  From talking with fellow skating coaches skate class attendance is up.  The rink where I teach had a very strong summer as far as classes go and their session business did a little better this summer.  Which always leads to more equipment sales.  It especially helps when the rink has stock on hand and someone available to answer questions or fit a skater.  Skating teachers often take on this role after their classes which is helpful to the rink since they know what type of skate their class skater should be purchasing.
Q:  Are your customers optimistic as the skate season gets started?

Vicki:  It seems everyone enjoyed a good summer and looking forward to a fun and busy fall. Sonny Grenier with Skating Plus in CA said he is very optimistic since his numbers for the past year have been dramatically up, he has seen double digit increases.  Sonny said he is looking forward to another good year.  He feels more traffic will bring even more skate and equipment sales.  The Skating Plus offers skating classes, has an Art Club and a Derby League.

 

Q:  Who from your company is planning to come to our show?

Vicki:  Vicki Handyside/Roll One Sales Rep

 

Q:  Do you have any new products coming out this fall?

Vicki:  We are currently working on new wheels but these may not be out until Winter.  I will be happy to tell you more about them at the show.

 

Q  What are some of your best sellers right now?

Vicki:  The RollerBones Team Wheels and Elites are doing very well.  We have re-released the 57 and 62 Elites in the 103 hardness due to so many requests for them from the adult skating market.  And as always the Bones Swiss and Reds continue to be number 1.

 

Q:  What sets them apart from other products on the market right now?

Vicki:  I will never tire of saying,  “it’s our quality”.  We’ve gone to special lengths to develop brands that are durable and will give the best performance for the skater.  Skaters are our main focus and want them to enjoy skating to the fullest and this can only be done on quality products.

 

Q:  Anything else you’d like our customers to know as they get ready for our show?

Vicki:  Just to stop by the Roll One booth and let me know how skating is going at their facility.  I would love to hear what Roll One brands are selling well for them and those that are not.  Maybe I will be able to help with some selling points whether it be more information regarding the item itself or how to best display it in their skate shop.  I love to talk skating so please indulge me.  I look forward to seeing everyone at your trade show.