Schwalbe turnover drops vs ’22 record levels, but up on pre-Covid

Last year, Schwalbe turnover of €237 million was down on its record 2022 numbers (€341 million), the tyre brand was ahead of pre-Covid levels (2019: €210 million).

The gravel category proved a strong performer for Schwalbe, which has been generating headlines lately for its tube recycling efforts

Frank Bohle, CEO of Ralf Bohle GmbH, said: “As a leading supplier to industry and the aftermarket, we were hit hard by the general market trend last year. Demand has fallen significantly, primarily due to external factors – the fact that this has happened after significant industry-wide capacity expansions has had corresponding consequences. Nevertheless, I am convinced that we will continue our positive development at Schwalbe and in the bicycle market as a whole in the medium term.”

Due to the reluctance to buy and full warehouses, orders for new products from both original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and the consumer market fell significantly and numerous orders were cancelled. “As part of our basic partnership approach, we took on additional burdens where we could,” explains Bohle.

As noted above, one growth segment that defied the trend in the previous year was Schwalbe’s gravel portfolio. Schwalbe said it has been a pioneer in this area for around nine years and its tyre models are extremely popular.

At the same time, Schwalbe set the course for a successful long-term future last year. With the introduction of the Green Marathon, the family-owned company set the benchmark for environmentally friendly tyre development, as it is the first bicycle tyre that closes the cycle and is made from used tyres, among other things. Schwalbe also unveiled its new brand identity in summer 2023 – with a new logo, new colour and the claim “Get there”. Other recent moves from the firm saw it shift all tyre and tube production to Vietnam.

Frank Bohle added: “We are receiving extremely positive feedback everywhere for our products and our brand. We therefore see ourselves in an excellent position for the medium to long-term future.”