MVC Group UK Ltd has officially launched as a direct operating structure for the United Kingdom and Ireland, featuring a dedicated local team, a UK-based warehouse, and a 24/7 B2B trade site.

Headed by Country Manager Richard Mardle, the new UK subsidiary brings core cycling brands Castelli, Sportful, and Karpos closer to the market, alongside recently acquired bikepacking specialist Tailfin, which will continue to operate independently.

Richard Mardle, Country Manager, MVC Group UK Ltd, said:

“Castelli, Sportful and Karpos are brands our whole team has a huge love and passion for, and it means a great deal to be taking them into this next chapter in the UK and Ireland together. To do that in the year the scorpion returns to the yellow jersey, and the Tour de France starts on our own roads, is something really special. Add Tailfin, one of the most exciting British brands in cycling, and there has never been a better moment to be part of MVC.

“We’re now fully up and running, with stock in the UK, a trade site our partners can order from around the clock, and a custom clothing service that can put clubs and teams in Castelli and Sportful kit. Our focus is on building long-term partnerships with retailers who share our passion, and giving them the service, stability and energy to make the most of what’s coming.”

Key Takeaways

  • MVC Group UK Ltd provides UK and Ireland retailers with localised service, eliminating import delays.
  • UK Warehouse & B2B Site with stock is held locally for fast delivery, backed by a 24/7 online ordering platform in GBP.
  • A dedicated custom kit service led by Darren Gumm supports cycling clubs, race teams, and events.
  • Castelli serves as the Official Technical Clothing Partner for all A.S.O. events starting in 2027, with the Grand Départ kicking off in Edinburgh.

Richard Mardle, Country Manager for MVC Group UK LtdRichard Mardle, Country Manager for MVC Group UK Ltd

Streamlined B2B Trade and Localised Support

The new operational setup allows UK retailers to deal directly with a local team backed by dependable stock and service.

The launch marks a strategic long-term commitment to one of the group’s most important markets. UK retailers will no longer navigate complex import logistics, instead dealing directly with a dedicated local team backed by a UK-based warehouse for fast, reliable delivery.

Partners also gain access to a dedicated B2B trade site for 24/7 online ordering in GBP, supported by Sales Manager Sophie Fennell and Custom Clothing Design Coordinator Darren Gumm.

Emilio Foà, CEO of MVC Group, said: 

“The UK is one of MVC Group’s most important markets, and 2027 is set to be an extraordinary year for it. With Tailfin now part of the Group, and Castelli on cycling’s biggest stage as the Tour rolls through the UK, the opportunity here has never been greater. Richard, Sophie and Darren know this trade inside out, and they are exactly the right team to strengthen our service, our relationships, and our long-term presence with retailers, teams and riders across the UK and Ireland.”

Custom Clothing

Custom clothing forms a major pillar of the new UK business. The local custom service provides cycling clubs, race teams, sportives, and corporate groups with professional-grade technical apparel from Castelli and Sportful, guiding customers from initial concept to final artwork approval.

Castelli and the Tour de France come to the UK 

The timing of the UK subsidiary’s launch aligns with a historic moment for the cycling industry. Beginning in 2027, Castelli becomes the Official Technical Clothing Partner for all 27 events organised by A.S.O., including the Tour de France and Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift. This partnership puts the brand’s iconic scorpion logo back on the maillot jaune for the first time since 1994.

With the 2027 Tour de France Grand Départ officially starting in Edinburgh on July 2 before heading through Scotland, England, and Wales, MVC Group UK is positioning its retail network to capitalise on unprecedented local marketing momentum.

MVC Group UK Ltd is a wholly owned subsidiary of Manifattura Valcismon S.p.A., registered in England and Wales, and is establishing its commercial base in the South of England.

Retailers, partners and press enquiries can be directed to: