New Blood Members

Jay Laifman (Jay_Laifman(at)countrywide.com)
Thu, 23 Jul 1998 08:16:54 -0700


In connection with forming a new club, there has been discussion about possible members who are not linked to the Internet. Any business person will tell you that you need to do market research and know who your targeted customer is before starting a new endeavor. There was talk that one particular club needs new blood. I think that probably goes for many clubs, and if we are starting a new club, we have to get a feel for who that new blood will be, and where the future of classic car ownership is going - and more particular where the future of Alpine ownership is going. Who are going to be buying Alpines next?

>From my armchair analysis, if we are looking for future owners, the net
seems to be the place to be. On the other hand, I truly wonder if someone who was not alive in the 60's, and possibly the 70's, will ever take an active interest in Alpines (a very depressing thought, when taken to its logical conclusion). I have read more than once lately that the buyers at the auctions lately have been older professionals looking for nostalgia. I have also read that the turn of the millennium is anticipated to bring more nostalgia. However, for the MTV and younger crowd, I do not see them identifying with Alpines. Their nostalgia may turn to Z's or CRX's or other Banzai bullets that can be fitted with the most powerful stereo.

When I first got my Alpine 20 years ago, I was a kid and other kids I knew owned B's, Midgets and Spitfires. I cannot tell you the last time I saw someone less than 30 driving a 60's sportscar.

So, who are the owners now and of the future?

My suggestion is simply to get all the clubs to run ads about this group and not try to compete with the existing snail mail groups.

Jay