The fall of Accell: Lapierre reorganises and calls for investors, but what’s next for Raleigh?

The recent news for Accell Group has been bleak, leaving it with what you could optimistically call a clouded future – earlier this month it said it had “exhausted all the available options” and was unable to meet its financial obligations, initiating local insolvency proceedings. However, there are sure signs that brands within the portfolio are beginning to break away and move ahead, namely Lapierre.

There has also been activity around the group itself, with Ireland headquarted investment firm Quanta Capital signalling its interest in acquiring it. Quanta was founded by former pro cyclist Mel Sutcliffe. There appear to have been no further developments on this move, however.

Lapierre: Judicial reorganisation, calls for investors

Earlier this week, Lapierre issued a statement on Facebook noting the brand has officially been placed under judicial reorganisation proceedings by the Commercial Court of Dijon.

Lapierre said: “This decision allows us to move forward with greater clarity and confidence. It opens the way to developing a clear continuity plan, as well as seeking a strong and committed investor to support the future of Lapierre and enable us to continue our activity and our commitment to you: our customers, dealers and cycling community.

“From today, our teams are fully focused on this next phase, more determined than ever to continue building the Lapierre story with the same passion and high standards that have driven us throughout our history…

“Thank you to everyone who continues to support us and stand alongside the brand during this important period.”

Where this legal move leaves a potential acquisition of Accell by Quanta remains to be seen. It’s not hard to speculate that other brands within the Accell portfolio will see Lapierre’s move and may aim to do similar, rather than wait for the high level deal to (hopefully) take place. Those other brands include big names – the large list includes Sparta, Winora, Koga, Batavus, Haibike, Ghost, Babboe, XLC, Carqon, Juncker, Tunturi and Loekie.