Gov. Doyle: On Trade Mission, Governor Doyle Opens First Harley-Davidson Boutique in Hong Kong

Contact:
Jessica Erickson, Governor’s Office, 608-261-2156

HONG KONG – On day nine of his trade mission to China,
Governor Jim Doyle cut the ribbon on Harley-Davidson’s first general
merchandise boutique in Hong Kong. The Governor and Harley-Davidson
officials said Sunday the opening signified the reemergence of
Harley-Davidson in Asia after several difficult years brought on by the
Asian financial crisis of the late 1990s.

“Harley is a great Wisconsin company that has grown to
become an American icon – one that is recognized the world over,” Governor
Doyle said. “I am pleased to be in Hong Kong to celebrate Harley extending
its reach to more and more customers worldwide.”

“By buying Harley-Davidson merchandise, people can share a
little bit of the Harley-Davidson experience,” said Steve Wasser, Sales
Director for Harley-Davidson’s Asia Region. “I appreciate Governor Doyle
being here as he works to promote Wisconsin exports throughout greater
China.”

The general merchandise boutique is located in Ocean
Terminal Shopping Centre in Kowloon, Hong Kong. It will sell
Harley-Davidson MotorClothes and memorabilia ranging from tee-shirts and
ties to $1,000 leather suits. Harley’s merchandizing helps to market the
company’s products not only to motorcycle enthusiasts, but also to those who
may not otherwise have considered buying a motorcycle.

The Governor also participated in a five-year anniversary
celebration for the Techno Harley-Davidson Dealership in Hong Kong.
Harley-Davidson sales have been growing at about 15 percent a year for the
past several years following the Asian financial crisis.

Governor Doyle is in China from March 19-31, leading the
largest trade mission in Wisconsin history. Individuals can follow the
trade mission by checking out the Governor’s daily blog on his website,
www.wisgov.state.wi.us. The blog includes the Governor’s reflections on the
trip, as well as pictures and soundclips.

Digital color photographs of the ribbon cutting are also
available online at www.wisgov.state.wi.us.