In the heart of Wapwallopen Pennsylvania, Blue Ridge Polaris stands as a beacon of authenticity, community, and passion. Founded in 1991, this family-owned dealership has grown from modest beginnings into a beloved institution in the powersports world. But for Angel Barber and her team, it’s never been about just selling ATVs—it’s about staying true to their roots, fostering real connections, and overcoming challenges with unwavering determination.
The origins of Blue Ridge Polaris are rooted in a simple, yet bold decision. In 1990, Angel Barber’s husband, Ed, bought their first Polaris ATV, eager to dive into the world of racing. At the time, Polaris wasn’t the brand you’d typically see on the track; races like the Harris Scramble were dominated by Yamaha Banshees and Kawasaki 4x4s. But undeterred by convention, they entered the race with their Polaris, making a statement about their belief in the brand.
This passion for Polaris led Ed Barber to start his own dealership in 1991, after struggling to find the parts he needed. What began in a single-car garage selling truck parts quickly grew into a dealership that would become a staple in the community. But despite their growth, Blue Ridge Polaris has always stayed true to the values that sparked its inception.
As Blue Ridge Polaris has grown, the team has been careful to preserve the family-owned feel that makes them unique. For Angel and her team, it’s not just about the bottom line—it’s about maintaining the principles that have guided them from the start.
“People go into business to make money,” Angel reflects, “and we are making plenty of that, but we don’t want to change who we are or what we do just for the money. Our top priority is making sure our customers feel at home.”
This commitment to authenticity is what sets Blue Ridge Polaris apart. In an industry where growth often leads to a loss of personal touch, Angel and her team have made it a point to remain true to themselves. “We are real,” Angel says. “We don’t shy away from being ourselves around customers, and they appreciate that.”
This philosophy is evident in the way the dealership operates. Angel often meets with customers after hours, working around their schedules to ensure they get the service they need. This dedication to customer service isn’t just about convenience—it’s about building lasting relationships.
For Angel, one of the most rewarding aspects of running Blue Ridge Polaris is the opportunity to connect with people from all walks of life. The powersports community is a diverse one, and Angel takes pride in creating a welcoming environment for everyone who walks through the dealership’s doors.
“I enjoy the people in the powersports realm,” Angel says with a smile. “It doesn’t matter what background you come from—whether that’s blue-collar, white-collar, or whatever—we’re all the same when we step into our dealership.”
This inclusive, down-to-earth approach has fostered a sense of community at Blue Ridge Polaris that’s hard to find elsewhere. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or new to the world of ATVs, you’ll find a place where you’re treated like family.
The journey of Blue Ridge Polaris hasn’t been without its challenges. On July 7, 2023, a devastating fire tore through the dealership, destroying three-quarters of the building, including the parts department, service department, and unit storage. It was a moment that could have crippled the business, but instead, it became a testament to the resilience and determination of Angel and her team.
Emergency response at the Blue Ridge Polaris: Firefighters tackle the aftermath of a devastating fire.
“The fire was devastating,” Angel admits, “but the support we received from the community was incredible. From the EMS who worked tirelessly to save the building to the customers who offered help—we couldn’t have made it through without them.”
With the community rallying behind them, Angel and her team worked tirelessly to rebuild. By the end of December, the dealership was up and running again, stronger than ever. To thank their loyal customers and celebrate their return, Blue Ridge Polaris hosted a customer appreciation day on July 5th—an event that highlighted the deep bond between the dealership and its community.
As Blue Ridge Polaris moves forward, Angel remains committed to the values that have defined the dealership since its inception. While growth is inevitable, she’s determined to maintain the principles that have made Blue Ridge Polaris a beloved part of the community.
“We’ve faced a lot of challenges, but we’ve never lost sight of what’s important,” Angel says. “We’re here because of our customers, our community, and our love for what we do. That’s what makes us who we are, and that’s what will keep us going for years to come.”
In a world where businesses often lose their way in pursuit of profit, Blue Ridge Polaris remains steadfast—a dealership that’s in it not just for the money, but for the love of the ride, and for the people who share that passion.
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