TAICHUNG, Taiwan - 2025 has been a big year for Belgian Cycling Factory (BCF). With the company's acquisition of Nukeproof, launch of BCF UK and first-ever Tour de France win for a BCF-sponsored team, the company has had a period of rapid expansion.

In today's market, product quality alone is no longer enough. With the added complexity of motors, batteries, and smart systems—and increasingly demanding riders—a scalable and reliable service model has become the true foundation of long-term success. This shift challenges OEMs and suppliers alike to rethink their role: not just as manufacturers or brands, but as service partners.

AMSTERDAM, The Netherlands - Retail giant Decathlon and KwikFit are starting a partnership in Amsterdam for the maintenance and repair of Decathlon bikes and e-bikes. The sports retailer has three stores in the capital, only two of which have bike repair workshops. Now, Decathlon customers can also visit the centrally located KwikFit location. If successful, a national roll-out is on the cards.

EINDHOVEN, The Netherlands - Shimano Europe has launched Nextgen Mechanics, a new call for evidence aimed at tackling the growing shortage of skilled bicycle mechanics across Europe. The collaborative initiative with Cycling Industries Europe aims to bring in a broad alliance of stakeholders committed to strengthening the profession, raising standards, and inspiring the next generation of cycle mechanics.

Germany/the Netherlands - Key economic and sourcing data has turned out to be an essential tool in steering the industry in today's challenging and volatile markets. The bicycle industry currently lacks the information needed to identify future market trends and a sourcing benchmark. Eurobike and Bike Europe will close this gap together in cooperation with the market research institute IFH Cologne in Germany.

LONG BEACH, United States - Amid an increasingly volatile trade industry, independent testing and certification body ACT Lab has launched a global pricing initiative to support bicycle and e-mobility manufacturers in maintaining safe and compliant products. The "Tariff Reduction ACT" applies to mechanical and chemical testing services in bundled packages to help companies navigating the frequently shifting trade policies and disruptions in the supply chain.