One of the biggest bicycle companies in the world that some weeks ago went bankrupt, initiated the industry-changing e-bike trend. But the huge e-bike success also brought about the demise of the company. What happened in those years? To honour his induction into the E-bike Hall of Fame, the founder and former chief editor of Bike Europe, Jack Oortwijn, shares his thoughts on the biggest change during his bicycle industry career, the rise of the e-bike.

Accell Group's bankruptcy has created significant uncertainty in the industry. Throughout the value chain, companies are closely following all developments around the potential takeover. September is the best time in Europe for retailers to decide which brands to offer in their shop next year and to order 2027 models. Retailers are now unsure what to do, as they can't wait too long.

Taiwanese bicycle manufacturer Giant has established a new Spanish subsidiary in Girona with an initial share capital of €1 million. The newly established entity, Giant Bicycle Spain SL, will focus on the commercialisation of bicycles, parts, accessories and related equipment, in one of Europe's most important cycling hubs.

The Rebirth Group, owner of bicycle brands including Solex, Gitane, Peugeot Cycles, Cowboy and Angell, is pursuing an increasingly ambitious consolidation strategy in the European bicycle industry. At the same time, the French group is facing mounting financial and legal pressure, including eviction proceedings, unpaid debts and historically substantial losses.

Optima Cycles and Bike&Co have entered a strategic supplier partnership for the German market partnership. Effective from 1 August 2026, the brands Lovens, Dolly and Dutch ID became part of Bike&Co's supplier programme for its affiliated independent bicycle retailers.

In June this year, Accell Group decided to integrate Sparta into Batavus as part of its One Accell strategy. The disappearance of the brand Sparta struck a chord with former leaders of the iconic Dutch bicycle brand. For Mark Kuper, who spent no fewer than 28 years at Accell and served for many years as Sparta's Commercial Director and public face, the decision is bittersweet. "When you see how much energy was invested in this brand, it's a devastating blow."