United We Frame: UK bicycle framebuilders unite amid industry challenges
Small and solo UK bicycle framebuilders and enterprises are facing difficult trading conditions, despite operating somewhat independently from the mainstream bicycle industry and its overstock problems.
Recognising the need for solidarity and collective action, a pivotal meeting is set to take place with the goal of assessing the current standing of businesses in the industry. It is being pitched as an opportunity for the industry to come together, offer mutual support and shape a collective response to the uncertainties faced by UK frame builders.
The primary objectives include devising strategies for joint promotion to the public and establishing a robust support system for industry members. Furthermore, the meeting aims to provide assistance and training for individuals aspiring to enter the industry.
The organisers emphasise that these objectives are not exclusive, encouraging participants to contribute additional suggestions during the collaborative session.
The online meeting of UK bicycle framebuilders is scheduled for Thursday 22 Feb at 7pm – interested parties can register for the event using this link: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJUqc-mspj4vGNct-A2to1mUBU5zUyf6JYuX
Key figures in this initiative, Paul Gibson (Ellis Briggs) and Rob Wade (Swallow Bespoke), boast extensive industry experience dating back to the 1980s and 90s. The meeting has been organised in cooperation with Mary Lewis the Endangered Crafts officer for The Heritage Crafts Association. The HCA has a rich history of promoting and supporting artisans across diverse crafts and adds significant weight to the collaborative effort with access to various mainstream media outlets and training grants opportunities. This endeavour presents a unique opportunity for industry members to garner the support they need while contributing to the support of others.
The initiative has pointed to a Japanese website as illustrative example of the kind of things possible, which successfully promotes Japanese frame builders. Meeting attendees are encouraged to use web browsers to translate the pages and draw inspiration for potential initiatives.
CIN recently delved into the plight of UK bicycle framebuilders in issue 04 2003 (page 18).
