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This is Fred Ball for Zions Bank, speaking on business.
Dave Tuomisto not only has a passion for business, but he has found great success with it.
His business experience started five years ago when he created the first Bajio Mexican restaurant. In the first year of business, the restaurant expanded three times, and in its second year, it sold more than 100 franchises. Although Dave appreciated the success of the business, he was more interested in a smaller, hands-on company. He made a deal with Subway to develop the Bajio concept and went looking for other business opportunities.
The Harley-Davidson dealership in Lindon was for sale, and Dave decided to purchase it. Since he took over Timpanogos Harley-Davidson, business has increased dramatically. He is in the process of building a new dealership — the first Harley-Davidson "resort" and one of the largest dealerships in the world.
After a visit to the site of the former Geneva Steele Plant, Dave was fascinated by the beautiful materials from the building. He thought it a waste they were being demolished and melted down. Dave purchased six acres along the I-15 corridor in Utah County and is building the new resort using reclaimed materials from the plant.
The resort will showcase the back roads of Utah and has a dedicated safety track for motorcycle safety classes, taught by a retired Utah County sheriff. A chrome consultant will be available to design bikes and decorate children's wheelchairs. Adjacent to the dealership will be Marley's restaurant with gourmet dining in a casual setting. Diners can also watch the motorcycle mechanics at work, with the shop next door.
Dave says what sets Timpanogos Harley Davidson apart is their passion for what they do. Instead of just trying to sell Harleys, the employees are riders themselves with excitement for the brand and the sport. Dave anticipates the dealership and Marley's, both scheduled to open next summer, will become a destination for visitors to Utah.
For Zions Bank, I'm Fred Ball. I'm speaking on business.
