BRUSSELS, Belgium - The European trade association for twowheel retailers (ETRA) welcomes two new associated members. Giant Europe and Hebie have both decided to back ETRA’s European lobbying activities in the interest of bicycle dealers and of the cycling community in general.
Giant designs and builds a complete range of quality bicycles that are available on 7 continents, in fifty-odd countries and in over ten thousand retail outlets. Hebie is a German producer of innovative components that “make a bike complete” such as kick-stands, mudguards and chain guards.
With their membership both companies underline the importance they attach to a strong dealer network for the marketing and the distribution of their products. Moreover, they subscribe to the viewpoint that in order to grow the market cycle usage needs to be promoted.
As for their motivation to join ETRA, Tony Lo, President of the Giant Group, explains: “We have always been impressed by the good work ETRA has done on behalf of twowheel retailers and for cycling advocacy in Europe. We consider ourselves a retail supporting company, we are eager to do things to help retailers become more successful.”
ETRA believes that the time for political pressure on the European Commission, Parliament and Council to promote cycling has never been better. Lobbying should be intensified on issues such as infrastructure, road safety, taxation, product quality, etc. The energy crisis, transport, environmental and health issues are hitting the media headlines almost every day. The media pressure goes together with a growing public awareness. ETRA believes this will lead to actions by the European authorities. ETRA wishes to be fighting for and on behalf of the cycling community to influence the decisions that will be made in that framework.
In order to develop its lobbying activities ETRA is working for a broader support from the bicycle business. The associated membership of Giant Europe and Hebie are the first results in this campaign. They join Shimano and Bohle, two companies that are supporting ETRA as associated members for several years now.
For any further details on ETRA associated membership: tel. +32 9 233 60 05, E-mail etra@pandora.be
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