11 June 2009 - New Zealand owned Sheppard Industries - which designs and makes the iconic kiwi bicycle brand Avanti and distributes a number of other bike and accessory brands - is planning for growth when many companies are focussed on survival.

Sheppard Industries is aiming to increase sales by building on New Zealanders' growing interest in affordable and environmentally friendly transport and by raising the awareness and value proposition of their retail network - AvantiPlus - by joining the loyalty programme, Fly Buys.

"With a greater focus on both the economy and the environment more people are choosing pedal power and with 31 stores nationwide we are well placed to make the most of that interest," says Sheppard Industries Customer Relationship Manager Tony Rogers.

"A key challenge is to make New Zealanders more aware of the extent of our retail network and also the quality of our range, advice and servicing. To help us achieve that we are partnering with Loyalty New Zealand and offering Fly Buys points on all purchases and servicing at AvantiPlus stores."

Loyalty New Zealand will be working with AvantiPlus to enhance their marketing through Fly Buys and by providing greater insight into consumer spending behaviour.

Loyalty New Zealand Chief Executive Andy Symons said the company was pleased to be extending the Fly Buys programme into the leisure and fitness category with such a strong New Zealand company and brand.

"Sheppard Industries and the Avanti brand are well respected so we are looking forward to working with them as a Participant to enhance their marketing programme," he said.

"It also means that mums and dads buying bikes for themselves or their children - as well as the serious cyclist - will have a chance to get even more rewards through Fly Buys."

AvantiPlus is the fifth Participant to join the Fly Buys programme this year after Henrys, CaseIH, Summit Quinphos and DFS.

Fly Buys Members will collect one point for every $25 spent and up to 30 June all AvantiPlus stores will be offering 10 Bonus Points on purchases of more than $50 with an opportunity to go into a weekly draw for 5000 points.