ZEIST, The Netherlands - It became apparent within the first few months of the year that 2025 would not be the turnaround year the bicycle industry needed. A muted Taipei Cycle show made clear that the supply chain was nowhere near back to being in full swing, and despite reasonable spring sales, the European market retracted again in the summer. Business-wise, there were reports of insolvencies, closures and redundancies. Knocks came from all sides: tariffs, human rights accusations, and very public non-alignment within the industry itself on several topics. However, pockets of innovation and newcomers managed to shine through, reminding the industry that its products are well-positioned for the long term. As the industry looks to realign and prepare for 'the fix in 2026', Bike Europe looks back at the articles that shaped 2025.

TAIPEI, Taiwan - Merida Industry Co., Ltd. reported an 8.5% year-on-year decline in consolidated revenue to NT$21.8 billion (€610 million) for the first three quarters of 2025, as weakening demand across Asia continues to weigh on the Taiwanese manufacturer's performance. Net profit for the parent company fell 18% to NT$1.44 billion (€39.5 million) during the same period, while earnings from associates, including Merida's stake in Specialized, contributed NT$511 million (€14 million).

For many in the bicycle industry, the third quarter financial results make uncomfortable reading. Despite optimistic signs in the first and second quarters, most Q3 results show that attaining financial stabilisation is still out of reach. As revenues drop, repeated streamlining and cost-cutting measures are being taken to ensure the health of companies in the bicycle industry supply chain. This sentiment is also echoed in the second results of the Global Bicycle Purchasing Index (GBPI), a new initiative between Bike Europe, Eurobike and IFH Koln.

EDINBURGH, UK - Intra Drive, the United Kingdom-based e-bike component developer, has secured €600,000 toward an extended €850,000 seed round. The new capital will support the transition from pilot units to commercial production of its GD8 integrated gearbox powertrain. Since displaying at Eurobike in 2021, Intra Drive has focused on building a European supply chain and industrialising its e-bike motor unit with a multi-speed gearbox.

VICENZA, Italy - The ongoing crisis in the cycling industry may be hitting one of the sector's most iconic Italian brands: Campagnolo, the historic Vicenza-based company and a name synonymous with world cycling. Reports of significant redundancies announced by the company have been circulating across major national news outlets and local media, but nothing has been confirmed by Campagnolo.

REDDITCH, England - Following a post-covid glut, cycling is again the "stand-out performer" for Halfords. In the first six months of the financial year, the UK retailer reports a 9% year-on-year revenue growth for its cycling products and services. With a strong first half, the company is on track to deliver its full-year expectations.