Saris Group acquired at bankruptcy auction by C+A Global

The Saris Group has been acquired in a bankruptcy auction by manufacturer and online retailer of consumer goods C+A Global.

Known for the production of bike racks, bike trainers, bike storage racks, as well as public bike systems and infrastructure, Saris ran into trouble of the back of erratic ordering patterns during the peak of the Covid-19 pandemic and in a similar fashion to indoor trainer giant Peloton could not balance the order books quickly enough to avoid filing for bankruptcy.

For those who have not heard of the C+A Global business, the group is parent to brands like Zink Technologies, a photography industry staple and photo paper partner to leading brands in that space.

“We are thrilled to add Saris to our always-expanding portfolio of brands,” said Chaim Piekarski, CEO of C+A Global. “C+A Global is perfectly positioned to build on this brand based on our successful experience of understanding and selling products that consumers want. Re-energizing Saris and maintaining its relationships are our highest priority and we’re looking forward to having Saris successfully operating with fresh product lines as soon as possible.”

What may be eye-catching to the bike industry, in particular since Saris’ competitors are increasingly flirting with consumer direct sales, is C+A’S significant presence on direct-to-consumer third-party sales platforms such as Amazon, Walmart, Target, Wayfair, and Chewy.

There is reassurance within the press statement that the specialty bicycle retail channel will remain and important pillar for Saris, however.

“The brand will continue to bring bike accessories to consumers and communities throughout the world through its retailers, specialty bike dealers, third-party e- commerce platforms, and its own website”, offers the statement.