PARIS, France - This was the question looking to be answered at the recently held Summit Series in Paris, supported by CIE's Women in Cycling expert group. The event, focusing on the retention and recruitment of women in the bicycle industry, hoped to 'lead the change' in correcting the current imbalance in the sector. With cross-spectrum representatives from industry and academia present, the conclusion was that progress is slow, and opportunities are being missed.

GIRONA, Spain - Accell Group has appointed William Perrier as managing director for Southern Europe in a role that was cut a couple of years ago. The renewed focus on the region is part of the group's strategy aimed at accelerating its development in the key markets of France, Spain, Portugal and Andorra. Perrier was presented at Sea Otter Europe as the man to boost the sales of Accell brands Lapierre, Ghost, Winora and Haibike, which are at the core of sales in the region.

EINDHOVEN, the Netherlands - Shimano announces that Marc van Rooij, president of the Shimano Europe Group, will leave the company by the end of 2025. Van Rooij has worked at Shimano for over 34 years in various management positions, including Shimano Benelux, Shimano Europe and Shimano Europe Holding. He has been president of the Shimano Europe Group since 2009.

BRUSSELS, Belgium - The European bicycle industry is losing a key face in Brussels. Manuel Marsilio has officially stepped down from his position as general manager of the Confederation of the European Bicycle Industry (CONEBI). This marks the end of more than a decade of leadership. Meanwhile, the ECF has welcomed its new CEO, who is tasked with advocating for better cycling infrastructure across Europe.

KOBLENZ, Germany - Founder, Roman Arnold, is returning to Canyon Bicycles GmbH to assume operational responsibilities as executive chairman, starting September 1st. Following a period where the ongoing challenging market environment had seen owner GBL's investment depreciate by 43% a new approach is now being taken. This means exit "by mutual agreement" for current CEO Nicolas de Ros Wallace.

NOTTINGHAM, UK - Accell Group's Raleigh brand has debuted the Raleigh One, a new e-bike that represents the brand's shift to a "striking new visual identity." The bike's sleek geometric lines and integrated tech features reflect the brand's desire to move into a more "urban, design-led" approach to mobility. It also reflects something else: The subtle but distinct touch of VanMoof's founders and former CEOs, Ties and Taco Carlier. What was previously speculation in the industry has now been confirmed by Ertu Bilgin, Accell Group's brand lead.