Bikepack BaggregatorIn a strategic move to enhance its customer service and delivery capabilities, Backcountry, the renowned outdoor gear retailer, has acquired Velofix, a leading mobile bike shop network operating across the United States and Canada. (bicycleretailer.com)
Expanding Service Offerings
This acquisition enables Backcountry to bridge the gap between online bike purchases and immediate, professional assembly and tuning. Velofix’s fleet of fully equipped service vans, staffed by 96 certified technicians, will now be integrated into Backcountry’s operations, offering customers the convenience of having their bikes assembled and tuned at their doorstep. (cyclingweekly.com)
Enhancing Customer Experience
Backcountry’s President, Kevin Lenau, emphasized the significance of this development: “Backcountry has always been about connecting people to an expert they can rely on. Now that expert comes to the driveway.” (bicycleretailer.com) This initiative aims to provide a seamless experience for customers, ensuring that their bikes are ready to ride upon arrival.
Impact on Velofix Franchisees
Approximately one-third of Velofix’s operations are franchised. Backcountry intends to maintain this model, leveraging its extensive consumer base to drive more business to these franchise owners. Lenau noted, “It’s going to be great for them. Backcountry has the largest consumer base in America for cyclists, and we are going to be leveraging that consumer base and our Summit Club Plus program to drive consumers to Velofix.” (bicycleretailer.com)
Looking Ahead
While the immediate focus is on integrating Velofix’s services into Backcountry’s bike assembly and delivery processes, there are plans to expand the range of services offered. Details regarding these enhancements will be announced in the near future. (cyclingweekly.com)
This acquisition marks a significant step for Backcountry in enhancing its service offerings, ensuring that customers receive expert assistance from the moment they purchase a bike to the moment they take it for a ride.