BikeBiz Bicycle and cycling retail news
bikeZaar, the online platform that unites independent bike dealers, is set to launch at the NEC Cycle Show this week.
It combines the inventory of independent bike shops, brands and distributors into a single website.
Kevin Griffiths, founder of bikeZaar, said: “Cycling is different to most other markets. Bikes, in particular, need regular servicing and bike shops are an essential part of the local community, but with the growth of online-only retailers, many are struggling to compete.
“This is why we developed bikeZaar. We do not produce or promote our own brands, we simply enable bike shops to utilise the power of our platform to reach a global audience and realise all of the benefits of being part of a large ecommerce offering.”
bikeZaar does not carry stock, instead it passes orders through to local independent bike shops to fulfil and service customers.
Cyclists benefit from the level of choice, availability, value and convenience whilst shopping online and in a way that also offers local in-store collection, support, expertise and assurance.
Customers can find what they are looking for quickly and easily and checkout securely in a single transaction without having to search and compare multiple sources.
For bike shops, the site extends their product catalogue, market reach and customer base beyond their normal radius, providing new sales opportunities and in-store footfall.
For brands and distributors, bikeZaar presents the opportunity to ensure that their full range is represented well online and available for customers to buy.
Griffiths added: “We connect supply and demand in ways that were never possible before.
“I have worked with some of the top cycling brands in the world and they were all looking for this mechanism a decade ago, being able to represent their whole range on a large ecommerce site, but in a way that gives them more control and also integrates high street bike shops.
“Now the solution exists and we are delighted to be welcoming so many brands and distributors on board, helping to surface warehouse inventory previously not visible to customers.
“Through our sales and inventory insights, we can also help them to make informed decisions and to optimise future production planning.”
The bikeZaar team will be at the Cycle Show this week (Hall 11: L59) demonstrating the site, as well as sharing ideas and investment plans for the future.
Visitors have the chance to win prizes up to £500 in value and a range of bikes, covering all categories, will be available to buy via an online auction.
