Kawasaki Launches E-Commerce Site

5 April 2000

Kawasaki Launches E-Commerce Site

    IRVINE, Calif.--April 5, 2000--Today's launch of a consumer e-commerce Web-site positions Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A., (KMC) as the leader in e-commerce for the motorized recreational products field. The company's innovative new site on the World Wide Web is the most comprehensive distributor-supported site in the industry.
    Buykawasaki.com offers Kawasaki customers an online shopping experience that seamlessly integrates established dealership service channels with a national-level inventory of Kawasaki vehicle accessories, clothing and gear. "We're giving our dealers the opportunity to make a quantum leap in the type of service they can offer their customers in the apparel and accessories area," said Rodger Howe, KMC's general manager of accessories. "In one day, they'll go from being part of a traditional 'brick and mortar' marketing channel, to being an innovative 'click and mortar' enterprise."
    Paul Trotta, KMC's vice president of sales, emphasizes that this technical leadership is an important element of Kawasaki's corporate culture. "We've always been at the forefront of technical innovation in our product design. Now we're bringing that willingness to be on the cutting edge into our merchandising efforts as well."
    "We haven't seen anything like buykawasaki.com in our industry before," Howe added. "We're the first motorcycle, ATV, utility vehicle and personal watercraft manufacturer to demonstrate a serious commitment to the growing segment of online shoppers. We know that with the explosive growth e-commerce is undergoing, our increasingly web-savvy customers are going to demand this kind of service."
    Buykawasaki.com incorporates both a business to consumer model and a business to business model. Consumers can buy vehicle accessories, clothing and gear online, and access warranty and recall information, as well as see the full line of parts offered by Kawasaki dealers. Dealers are able to order accessories, and those enrolled in the company's proprietary K-Share dealer services program can order parts using an electronic parts catalogue.
    Kawasaki's e-commerce site will allow retail customers to make purchases with the participation of an authorized dealership. Every order will be supported by a participating Kawasaki dealership, and KMC will handle all order fulfillment, shipping and returns, as well as inventory maintenance.
    Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A., is a leading marketer of motorized products, including motorcycles, JET SKI(R)watercraft, ATVs and the MULE(TM)utility vehicle. The company is headquartered in Irvine, Calif.