The former sales director of Dawes has created his own business - Saddleback - and has already secured the UK and Ireland distribution for Thule, Serfas, Ronhill and Battaglin.

Andy Wigmore gets back in the saddle

Wigmore left the Tandem Group in March and feverish comments on the BikeBiz.com bulletin board have been predicting his return to the bicycle trade with his own company. And now it’s up and running.

13 years in the bike trade, Wigmore said he has good contacts and is targeting "quality professional independent dealers". He will specialise in distributing "well-marketed…established international brands."

As well as Dawes, he’s worked for Caratti Sport, Moore Large and Falcon.

"Unlike some of the more corporate employers that I have had, the soul behind [Saddleback] will be passionate about the product, about cycling and about the future of our industry," said Wigmore.

"Since leaving [Dawes] at the end of March I have been determined to form my own company that I can take in the direction I best feel fit without being answerable to others with different objectives."

As the comments on the bulletin board attest, Wigmore is well liked, and the feeling’s are mutal

"I am staggered by the overwhelming support that I have had from both dealers and former trade colleagues alike many of which have offered invaluable assistance," said Wigmore.

He aims to add more brands but the current roster is an eclectic, international mix. Thule car racks are from Sweden; Serfas saddles and pumps are from the US; Ronhill is a British running and outdoor sports brand; and Battaglin is an Italian road bike company.

Saddleback Ltd.

80 Coopers Drive

Yate

Bristol

BS37 7YF

Tel: 07795 511234

ajwigmore@btopenworld.com

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