French e-Bike Sales Picking Up Sharply

PARIS, France – The French e-Bike market is growing rapidly. During the first half of this year electric bicycles noted a 15% rise in sales related to the same period in 2007. Not only more e-bikes have been sold, also the other segments are showing positive results.

According to the French industry association Tous a Vélo, during the first six months of this year the market for Trekking bikes went up by 8%, City bikes by 3%, kids’ bikes by 4% and finally MTB by 2%. Remarkably the turn-over fell short of the sales as it grew by only 2.5% in the same period.

Parts and accessories sales shrank

These figures have been published by the French industry organization Tous a Vélo which is part of CNPC (Conseil National des Professions du Cycle) who conducted this semi-annual report for the first time this year. Tous a Vélo/CNPC also found that the large sport chains have booked a 5% rise in turnover while the sales in the smaller bicycle shops remain on level with last year. The overall market for parts and accessories shrank by 1%.

Tous a Vélo/CNPC also noted that the market share of the French bicycle producers dropped. Between January and July the French brands have sold 9% fewer bikes related to the same period last year.

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