BikeZaar online platform launching at Cycle Show
BikeZaar – an online marketplace that passes orders through to independent bike shops – is launching at the NEC-set Cycle Show this week.
The site, which set up an IBD-facing partnership with Tandem Group Cycles in the summer, does not carry stock but combines the inventory of independent bike shops, brands and distributors into a single website. Independent bike shops go on to fulfil and service customers.
BikeZaar said it aims to provide cyclists with a huge range of choice, availability, value and convenience whilst shopping online, coupled with local in-store collection, support, expertise and assurance.
BikeZaar will exhibit at the show in Hall 11, stand L59.
Kevin Griffiths, founder of BikeZaar, commented: “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.
“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 platform added that it helps shop compete for a share of the growing ecommerce market on a “level playing field with their online only competitors, without risk or investment”.
The BikeZaar team will be at the Cycle Show demonstrating the site, as well as sharing plans for the future. Visitors have the chance to win prizes up to £500 in value.
