Cycling Industry Club Targets 1 Million Euro for Cycling Advocacy

FRIEDRICHSHAFEN, Germany - Representatives of leading bike companies and European Cyclists’ Federation (ECF) launched the Cycling Industry Club (CIC) at last week’s Eurobike show. The group will fund ECF’s advocacy activities to advance pro-bicycle policies across Europe.

Combining forces of the bicycle business with ECF has been an ambition for some time. Among the founding members are Accell Group, DT Swiss, Schwalbe, Selle Royal, SRAM, Trek and Trelock. These companies have committed financial support to help ECF and are calling upon other companies to join the club. Their aim is to get 1 million euro in advocacy money raised by next year.

SRAM CEO Stan Day’s motivation to join the club is clear: “We need strong cycling advocacy on all levels, from local to international. ECF is leading advocacy in Brussels and developing advocacy leaders in growing markets.”

René Takens CEO of Accell Group, also recognizes the success of ECF’s efforts: “ECF has achieved substantial progress: the EU now funds projects to realize the completion of the long distance cycle route network EuroVelo. And thanks to ECF, cycling gained an unprecedented global voice this year at the International Transport Forum of 52 Transport Ministers.”

John Burke, President of Trek Bicycle Corporation saw the occasion to combine advocacy and the bicycle business as “a great first step for bicycle advocacy in Europe”. “The bicycle industry,” says Burke “has been very good to many people in Europe, including Trek. There is a responsibility for those companies who have done well in Europe to give back. And this is a great way to give back.”

Companies interested in joining the ‘Cycling Industry Club’ should contact ECF President Manfred Neun or Secretary General Dr. Bernhard Ensink via e-mail: b.ensink@ecf.com