Representatives of leading bike companies and the European Cyclists’ Federation (ECF) joined forces at Eurobike to launch a global Cycling Industry Club (CIC). The group will fund ECF’s advocacy activities to advance pro-bicycle policies across Europe. Members are calling upon other companies to join the club and want to see €1 million in advocacy money raised by next year.
Combining the might of the bicycle industry with ECF has been an ambition for some time. A meeting at Eurobike saw the official creation of the CIC with big names including Accell, DT Swiss, Schwalbe, Selle Royal, SRAM, Trek and Trelock on board. Companies have committed financial support to help ECF triple the number of cyclists in Europe by 2020.
Strengthening ties between industry and advocacy is in the best interests of all parties. When quizzed on the need for such a club, ECF President Manfred Neun wasted no time in highlighting their importance: “Strong advocacy will only strengthen the bicycle industry, and vice versa. It’s a mutually sustaining relationship”.
Lobbying and promotional work that improves overall conditions for cyclists is seen to be in the best interests of the cycling industry. More people cycling will ultimately mean more bicycles being sold.
SRAM CEO Stan Day noted his clear motivation to join the club. “We need strong cycling advocacy on all levels, from local to international. ECF is leading advocacy in Brussels and developing advocacy leaders in growing markets,” he said.
René Takens at Accell also recognized the success of ECF’s efforts. “ECF has achieved substantial progress: the EU now funds projects to realize the completion of the long distance cycle route network EuroVelo. And thanks to ECF, cycling gained an unprecedented global voice this year at the International Transport Forum of 52 Transport Ministers.”
All current CIC members are calling upon other players in the bicycle industry to get on board. John Burke, President of Trek Bicycle Corporation saw the occasion to combine advocacy and the bicycle business as “a great first step for bicycle advocacy in Europe.”
“The bicycle industry,” said Burke “has been very good to many people in Europe, including Trek. There is a responsibility for those companies who have done well in Europe to give back. And this is a great way to give back.
As for getting more bike companies signed up to reach the €1 million target, Burke doesn’t hold back. “So many people believe in the industry that the bicycle is a simple solution to many complicated problems; and this is a great opportunity to put their money where their mouth is”
Companies interested in joining the Cycling Industry Club should contact ECF President Manfred Neun or Secretary General Dr Bernhard Ensink (e-mail: b.ensink[at]ecf.com or phone:+32479837905).
The European Cyclists’ Federation (ECF) represents the interests of bicycle users, is based in Brussels and has over 60 member organisations across 40 countries. As well as advocating for better cycling policies and promoting cycling at an international level in general, ECF has a range of programs including EuroVelo, the European cycle route network, the global networks ‘Scientists for cycling’ and ‘Cities for Cyclists’, and the Velo-city and Velo-city Global conference series.
ECF is a main partner in several EU funded projects such as PRESTO and CYCLE Logistics.
