Sorry Paul, I disagree. It's a business, they want you to buy, and you want to taste the goods. For 30mins @ 5pgh what's the cost? $10-15? I've heard Mitch is a nice guy and an advocate for Vans.drseti wrote:Not sure I agree with you, Howard. These are mostly small companies operating with little to no margin. If they give free joyrides to everyone who wants one, how long will they stay in business? By charging the actual operating costs, they're reducing the burden to a manageable scale, and ensuring that the folks flying are actually prospective customers. And, most companies do credit the demo ride costs toward the purchase price.Nomore767 wrote:BTW…I think it's a bit steep having to 'pay' for the demo! Seriously?
BTW, in past years, the RV-12 rides were all given by Mitch, in his own aircraft, at his own expense (he's not a Vans employee). Why shouldn't he be reimbursed operating costs for providing this service?
If companies' margins are so slim they need to cover the gas for a demo at a sales Expo then maybe they've got more serious financial issues? Getting a credit for the demo discounted from the purchase price is minuscule when the cost to the customer is $125k.
Not sure if Mitch's airplane will be the one used as Vans have said they're flying an SLSA to the show and have asked those interested to specify a color, from the new range, plus they plan a stop in TX and are looking for those interested to meet them there, on the way to Sebring. I look forward to talking with Mitch though.