Accell Group's bankruptcy has shown how essential information is for effective purchasing planning. Insufficient supply-chain information led to excessively large order volumes between 2020 and 2022. Excess inventory continued to drain Accell Group's financial position for several years and ultimately led to the demise of the once-largest bicycle factory. The Global Bicycle Purchase Index (GPBI) gives you insights into the supply chain thanks to the industry's input.

Over the years, but consistently, belt drives have made their entry into the e-bike and bicycle market. More than 15% of all new bicycles sold come with belt drive systems. What gave reason for this transition in drive systems? "The bicycle is becoming a more practical form of everyday transportation, and riders increasingly expect the same reliability and ease of use they receive from other mobility products," says Chris Sugai, General Manager, Mobility Business Unit at Gates Belt Drives.

Let's be honest: finalising pre-orders is the most stressful moment of a retailer's year. You commit a large part of your budget to a product you have often never seen, and then hope it arrives before the customer you promised it to loses patience - late deliveries deserve their own article. How can you enter conversations with brands as a strategic partner, rather than someone who simply takes orders?

The on-off reporting on whether hostilities in the Middle East will end is causing significant business uncertainty. Moreover, the heavy reliance on deliveries of parts and components from Asia leads to major cost fluctuations. As this uncertainty persists, suppliers and bicycle manufacturers will factor this into their pricing. The consequences are ultimately higher costs and higher bicycle prices in stores, as evidenced by the most recent Global Bicycle Purchasing Index (GBPI).

The market has finally reached a renewed level of stability. Despite global economic uncertainty and disruptions in recent months, overall confidence remains stable to moderately positive, as shown by the latest Global Bicycle Purchasing Index (GBPI). Following several years of exceptional volatility, the industry can once again look ahead with greater confidence and focus on sustainable growth and future development.

The spike in oil prices has drastically changed the market outlook. Raw material prices plus the costs of production and logistics have been affected by the geopolitical situation. The high fuel prices worldwide could also attract more people to start cycling. Are you prepared to adapt to the new situation? The Global Bicycle Purchase Index (GPBI) will provide you with these insights next month.