SHIMANO Nordic has tied-up with software company BikeFolder across the Nordic region with the goal of solving common challenges for bike shops, workshops, manufacturers and cyclists.
The digital BikeFolder platform is multi-functional software that aims to simplify the lives of bike shop owners, mechanics, brands and cyclists. Each user enjoys benefits, from optimising and automating bike shop databases to taking control of bike ownership data.
With 85% of features available for free, BikeFolder has built a following in its native Norway. There are currently over 1 million bikes in the BikeFolder database and a claimed 80% market coverage of new and used bikes.
BikeFolder provides bike shops and workshops with a detailed dashboard. The software creates a bicycle ID, through the use of a QR code, for each individual bike and stores that information in a digital garage.
Retailers and mechanics can then automate communications on areas such as sales and servicing. BikeFolder points out that seasonal peaks in servicing can be smoothed out, and dormant customers can be re-engaged, with businesses being able to plan resourcing and sales better.
Workshops using BikeFolder report a 20-30% increase in efficiency and fewer calls about lost keys, frame numbers, and theft documentation, while bookings are now streamlined through digital links.
The digital bike garage gives the individual cyclist access to key information for each bike they own. They can track servicing records, component upgrades, important documentation and a variety of smart tools.
Storing this information in one place is key when a bicycle is sold, stolen or damaged. Potential buyers can see a definitive record of ownership and maintenance; insurers can see the history and value of a bike; and workshops can see details to ensure a successful repair or service.
BikeFolder offers a freemium solution for international bike manufacturers. This provides insights into where their products go once they leave the factory. Each bike can be added to a digital garage either when it leaves the factory or when it is sold.
BikeFolder adds that its software empowers manufacturers to see which markets are performing well and which aren’t and then make informed plans. Recall notifications and warranty discussions can also be handled efficiently.
Regional compliance with regulations such as Right to Repair and Battery Traceability can also be delivered through the BikeFolder software database.
BikeFolder also enables manufacturers to provide paperless solutions. All manuals can be digitised and uploaded to the software, saving printing and paper costs in addition to being more eco-friendly.
Andrew Cowan, CEO of SHIMANO Nordic, said “We were blown away by how smart and simple the BikeFolder system is in solving the daily challenges faced by our dealers.
“The way the team systematically addressed issues that bike shops have struggled with for years shows that this system was developed by people with a deep understanding of the industry. We see an increase of consumers servicing their bike on a more regular basis; leading to longer bike usage and increased sales in wearout and spare parts for dealers.
“Bike retailers in Norway have been using BikeFolder for 13 months, and it now covers over 80% of new bike sales in the market and over 1m bicycles is already in the system. We are excited to roll this system out to the rest of the Nordics and look forward to offering it to all dealers in the region.”
SHIMANO Nordic plans to focus on the Nordic region for thecoming months but is already opening the door for implementation in other countries. “We truly see the global potential with the BikeFolder solution, which is designed for international scalability,” Cowan added.
www.bikefolder.com
www.shimano.com
