Rosie Burgin

LITTLE ROCK, USA - Time Bicycles is investing $6.5 million to build the largest carbon fibre bicycle factory in the US. Located in South Carolina, this new facility will extend the capabilities of Time's European factory and will be used to manufacture high-end carbon fibre bicycles and componentry.

AGUEDA, Portugal - The Portuguese two wheel and soft mobility sector registered a 21.68% increase in export in January, compared to the same period in 2022, data released by the National Statistics Institute of Portugal (INE) shows. The value of bicycle and component exports is also continuing to break records.

REICHSHOF, Germany - Tyre manufacturer, Schwalbe increased its turnover to €335 million in 2022, a growth of more than 20% compared to the previous year. This sets a new record for Schwalbe as the brand celebrates its 50th anniversary. However, a decline in sales is expected for 2023.

TAIPEI, Taiwan - With sustainable supply chains gaining ground on the industry's agenda, the WBIA will host an event dedicated to the topic at this year's Taipei Cycle Show. The event will include the launch of the WBIA principles for more sustainable supply chains as well as showcase the best practices of companies appointed by the WBIA members.

OSAKA, Japan - Shimano has introduced Cues, a new approach to its mid-tier component line-up. Redesigned from the ground up, Shimano has focused on high-compatibility and consolidated its 9, 10, and 11-speed drivetrains like Deore, Tiagra and Alivio into one unified ecosystem of components.

KĖDAINIAI, Lithuania - The new factory for the world's largest family of bicycle brands, Pon.Bike, has started to take shape in Lithuania. Construction has now begun on the 12-hectare site. The factory, which will start operations in the summer of 2024 is part of Pon.Bike's strategy to produce bikes close to market.

WORMER, The Netherlands - Hosted by European decal manufacturer, Posterama Screen Productions, the first BIG3 event of 2023 which explores techniques in frame-finishing will be held 28-29 March in the Netherlands. Along with the trends, design and innovations in surface finishing technologies, the event will discuss "all the right reasons why the production of bicycles and sporting goods needs to come back home."

LONDON, England - Sales data collected from UK e-bike and bicycle retailers show that the market has taken a huge drop in 2022. With e-bike sales plateauing and regular bike sales dropping 22%, the country's Bicycle Association is calling for action as the market hits a 20-year low.

HAIBACH, Germany - Battery manufacturer Akku Vision GmbH has acquired 51% of its supplier in the field of battery management systems, the company jvi gmbh. The acquisition came into effect on 1st July 2022.

OBERWANGEN, Switzerland - Speed pedelec manufacturer, Stromer had a successful year in 2022 despite a complex year for the bike industry. With global sales up 17% the company is looking positively to 2023 and again has set a goal of double-digit growth. Personnel changes are being made to support this ambition.