Jan-Willem van Schaik

WELS, Austria - As a result of the market circumstances for e-bikes, bicycles and motorbikes, Pierer Mobility will fall short of expectations in terms of revenue and earnings, as well as with regard to the reduction in working capital and net debt in the current financial year. Therefore, the company has revoked its guidance for the 2024 financial year.

PHNOM PENH, Cambodia - The slow recovery of the Cambodian bicycle export to the European Union prompted the country's five assemblers to look for new markets. The once leading importer of bicycles into the EU-27 is also facing fierce competition of other major bicycle exporting countries like China and Bangladesh.

APELDOORN, the Netherlands - To step up Merida's presence, the Benelux distributor of the Taiwanese manufacturer has expanded into Denmark as the official importer for this country. This strategic move strengthens Merida's foothold in the Scandinavian region, furthering the brand's commitment to delivering high-quality bikes and cycling gear to a wider audience.

LORIOL-SUR-DROME, France - Look Cycle Group has announced the sale of the high-end carbon bicycle wheel specialist Corima. The two companies formed together in 2016 when Look Cycle became the owner of Corima. In 2022 the two companies fully merged but have now split up again effective 30 September 2024.

BRUSSELS, Belgium - Cycling as a lever for economic growth was the key message of the CIE 2024 Summit on October 2, organised by Cycling Industries Europe in partnership with the Benelux Union. Over 200 attendees discussed a blueprint for cycling industry policies heeding the EU Declaration on Cycling's call for the 'development of a world class cycling industry'.

OSAKA, Japan - To hit back on e-bike drive system suppliers who overshadow Shimano's leading market position, the component manufacturer will start mass production of its AI-integrated drive train system Q'Auto. Launched as a concept at Eurobike 2023, the first bikes featuring this system will be on the market soon. CEO Yozo Shimano explains the business decision to take this step forward.

AMSTERDAM, the Netherlands - Support from Pon.Bike makes it possible for Ziemi to venture its innovative bicycle lighting system into international markets. Pon.Bike is, among others, the largest of seven parties that recently participated in an investment round raising €300,000.

ROMILLY SUR SEINE, France - The operation of Cycleurope Group and Grimaldi Industri AB in France will be taken-over by the Rebirth Holding SAS as of 7 October. In a short announcement Cycleurope reports the transfer of 100% ownership to Rebirth Holding SAS for an undisclosed amount.

HEERENVEEN, the Netherlands - Accell Group reached an agreement with a majority of its financial stakeholders and could improve its financial position. The transaction will lead to a reduction of Accell Group's debt by approximately €600 million, or around 40% of the total debt, from approximately €1.4 billion.

TAICHUNG, Taiwan - The lack of one central organiser of Taichung Bike Week might turn out to become the biggest hurdle for the event to overcome the current problems in the bicycle industry. Three hotels in Taichung's business district open up their rooms and banquet halls for exhibitors who invite their customers to come over. For the rest it is wait and see. This means a solid foundation and future vision for TBW are lacking.