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Matt’s a busy guy, but I managed to corner him long enough to ask a few questions. Read closely ... there will be a test ...
How did the business affect you through your childhood, and the rest of the family?
Growing up in a family business has been a blessing and a curse. Christmas dinners were open to business discussion. When the business was
doing well, my brother and I were acutely aware of it; however, the inverse is also true – when things weren't going do well at different points, life at home was hard. Overall, I'm glad to have the
experience – it ounds cliché, but the business really is in my blood. I can recall at a young age
telling my dad that it wasn't good enough to sell only 4 bikes in a day – he should sell 100! I think the advantage that I had is that I was
privy to some pretty neat stuff growing up -- particularly when my dad was manufacturing bikes in the 80's. The key is to watch and learn from everyone!
Were there any celebrities associated with Savages over the years?
Well, we have an autographed photo of Billy Ray Cyrus hanging in the shop. Does that count?
What was the all-time best selling bike at Savages? What made it so popular?
There really isn't one in particular – pretty much right across the board. I do know that there are a lot of Norco Mountaineers and Bigfoots out
on the street that came from here.
What was your personal favorite? My personal favorite bike?
Wow, I'll name a few. First, the original Raleigh Chopper – not a chopper per se, just a cool bike. My dad wouldn't let me have one when I
was 8 and I still bug him about that. Second would be the Norco XCS-1. This was a full suspension cross-country bike –
very expensive and, for me, by far the best bike I've ever owned. It just worked well for me at the time. And third, the Raleigh Module 7 – it was
a 24-inch wheel road bike. My brother, Aaron, and I used to take long road trips; however, we were only 8 at the time and my parents took the bikes away from us. These were the first adventures Aaron and I took and
we're still going!
Why was the business moved from Queen Street to its current location?
We've moved several times over the years! We're actually going to be moving this year. We've purchased the old Fire station on King street and
will moving there within two months! Moving is a big decision that is driven purely by the stores need to meet customer demands.
What brands of bikes have you carried over the years?
Just about everything! I can recall CCM (in the 70's), Bianchi, Brodie, Raleigh, GT, Felt, Concorde, Diamond Back, Nishiki, Caribou … to name a
few. Currently we do Norco, Jamis, Haro, Masi, Del Sol and a new one coming soon! Bike brands are tricky. There's a balance between the company and its ability to stand behind their product. Other factors such
as delivery, availability and price point all come in to play.
I bought a Raleigh Grand Prix at Savages about 30 years ago. What's the story behind Raleigh?
Raleigh -- wow... great bikes -- then. Unfortunately, Raleigh moved from a made in England bike to the bike that currently sits in Canadian
Tire. Going Mass Merchant has killed the Brand. What once was one of the best brands in the planet, is now one of the worst. Quality is down and
the brand recognition, although still there, is slowly eroding.
You've changed your name and market presence ... what's the story behind this?
We never have changed our name -- however, we've worked hard to focus on niche markets. We want to be the best at what we do on every
front. We're still making changes and we're always trying new things. However, you have to remember where you come from – value and service is the key!
What are the main trends in bikes and biking at present?
Dirt Jumping has exploded in the last few years. Also, there has been a drastic change in the average consumer – most people ask for something
that is comfortable and easy to pedal – 10 years ago, this wasn't the case.
What's the next hot trend?
If I told you, I'd have to.... um... well, let's just forget that one.
Where do you see Savages in 10 years? We'll still be here I hope!
Can you describe the typical Savage's employee? Who were some that stood out over the years?
Self-motivated, confident and willing to do what it takes to ensure customer satisfaction. I look for employees who simply love bikes and love
helping people. Some of the best employees? Dan Gillett and Glen Miller by far. These guys (who currently work at the shop) are the best I've ever seen. As university students, they will soon move on. I'm
excited to watch their progress and I know they will excel in whatever they do – that's the type of person I want to work with.
What's the greatest source of personal satisfaction for you in your work?
Personally, I really enjoy helping get the right bike for young kids. They're so fun and full of life and the smiling face when they ride the
bike for the first time is always priceless. I was a teacher in my former life, so I love helping kids and making sure that they are safe and confident on their new bikes!.
Now for the skill-testing question. In the photo below, pick out the fastest man in the world... so fast that the speed of a camera lens means
nothing to him.
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