OPINION
to consider the full value proposition when purchasing a bicycle. The expertise provided by a knowledgeable retailer, the peace of mind that comes from professional assembly, and the relationship established with a local business that will support your cycling journey over many years—these benefits have real value that should factor into any purchasing decision. An industry with recognisable quality practices can engage and educate consumers.
The pandemic years saw unprecedented demand for
bicycles, with many new cyclists entering our community. This should have been an opportunity to establish strong foundations for future growth based on quality, service, and integrity. Instead, in the aftermath, some parts of
PHOTO BY MANNY BECERRA ON UNSPLASH
our industry have fallen into patterns that threaten to undermine consumer confidence and devalue the skilled work of bicycle mechanics (and the sector as a whole).
‘THE PANDEMIC YEARS SAW UNPRECEDENTED DEMAND FOR
BICYCLES, WITH MANY NEW CYCLISTS ENTERING OUR COMMUNITY. THIS SHOULD HAVE BEEN AN OPPORTUNITY TO ESTABLISH STRONG FOUNDATIONS FOR FUTURE GROWTH BASED ON QUALITY, SERVICE, AND INTEGRITY.’
At the ACT, we’re committed to working with all stakeholders to improve the health of our supply chain, and we’ve developed high-quality training and accreditation schemes (within the Cytech programme)
that help consumers identify retailers who adhere to the highest standards of professional practice and invest in their workforce.
The issues facing our supply chain won’t be resolved overnight, but addressing them is essential for the long-term health (and growth) of our industry. When a customer purchases a bicycle, they aren’t just buying a product—they’re entering a relationship with our industry that we hope will last for many years. That relationship should be built on trust, honesty, and mutual respect. As we navigate these challenges, I remain optimistic about the future of independent cycle retail in Britain. The retailers who focus on adding genuine value through their expertise, their service quality, and their community engagement continue to trade even in difficult market conditions. The suppliers who recognise the importance of a healthy, diverse retail ecosystem are finding ways to support these businesses while adapting to changing consumer expectations. The bicycle remains one of humanity’s most brilliant inventions—a marvel of efficient engineering that enhances health, reduces environmental impact, and provides unparalleled freedom of movement. Our industry’s responsibility is to ensure that every bicycle sold delivers on this potential, regardless of where or how it was purchased. By working together to restore integrity to our supply chain, we can ensure that cycling continues to flourish in Britain for generations to come.
info@theact.org.uk |
cycleassociation.uk
34 | June 2025
www.bikebiz.com
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