Herrmans ramps up UK presence

Finnish component manufacturer Herrmans has forged a new agreement with Component Force as part of its new push into the UK and Irish markets.

The two firms have already worked together, Component Force formerly supplying Herrmans industrial grip business to the UK. CF also manufactures, stocks and distributes a large range of plastic, rubber and foam parts for different industries and the deal marks the company’s first step into the bicycle market.

The news comes on Herrmans’ 50th anniversary in the bicycle industry. The firm will now introduce its range of grips, lights, chainguards, rim tapes and reflectors to the UK.

Herrmans employs 150 staff, has a turnover of €33 million and was first distributed to the UK bike trade in the early 1970s.

“The UK market has a lot of potential,” said Herrmans area sales manager Michael Östman.
“And together with Component Force’s professional approach and our new Aftermarket products we are confident that the future is full of fresh opportunity.”

Component Force MD Paul Gardner enthused: “It seemed like a natural progression for Component Force to expand into the bicycle market. After many years supplying plastic components to businesses, including the industry grips range from Herrmans, we were very keen to further enhance our relationship by formally becoming their agent for the UK and also Ireland.

“This is an exciting partnership which allows us to offer an excellent range of products to the bicycle market from both the Herrmans’ range and our existing complementary products,” added Gardner.