In 2009, the value of the bicycle market grew by more than 4%, despite a 10% fall in the number of bicycles sold. With nearly all bicycles sold in the UK being imported, the weakness of the pound led to a sharp rise in prices.
A shortage of stock last year led to some companies bringing forward 2010 models to fill the void. Retailers had underestimated demand, particularly in low to mid-range road bikes in the £300-600 band.
Sales of bicycles are being stimulated by Cycle to Work schemes, offering significant discounts on bicycles bought through employers, and a wider range of retail finance, particularly interest-free deals. These schemes are also encouraging buyers to trade up to more expensive models.
The e-bikes (electric bicycles) sector is generating considerable excitement in the industry, with sales growing rapidly from a tiny base. These products are seen as a ‘half-way house’ between bicycles and mopeds/scooters. Longer term, e-bikes could play a role in introducing many more people, particularly women, to cycling.
Bicycle retailing is becoming increasingly competitive, with the likes of Halfords competing with specialists (such as Evans, independents and online-only operations like Wiggle and Chain Reaction). Of greater concern to the trade are the major grocery retailers, such as Tesco and Asda. The grocery retailers are showing an interest in growing their share of the bicycle market, having already trialled some lines at extremely low prices.
Cyclists can be divided fairly evenly into the one in eight adults who ride regularly (once a week or more often) and the similar proportion who ride occasionally (less often than once a week). Non-cyclists are most likely to be deterred by the perception that it is too dangerous to ride a bicycle on the road.
In 2009, the value of the bicycle market grew by more than 4%, despite a 10% fall in the number of bicycles sold. With nearly all bicycles sold in the UK being imported, the weakness of the pound led to a sharp rise in prices.
A shortage of stock last year led to some companies bringing forward 2010 models to fill the void. Retailers had underestimated demand, particularly in low ...
This report provides in-depth analysis and insight supported by a range of data. At the same time, introductory and top-level content is provided to give you an overview of the issues covered.
Mintel provides a range of market information across categories including: forecasting and share information; internal and broader market environment information; and the issues that affect the market in question.
Mintel conducts exclusive and original consumer research for reports, bringing up-to-date and unique insight to topical issues. This research examines the impact of social, economic, cultural and psychological influences on consumers.
Our brand research provides data and informed analysis across a number of consumer metrics including usage, satisfaction, recommendation, momentum and trust. It also explores consumer attitudes towards brands and examines the reasons behind these.
Oxygen Reports provide appendices of data to support the research and insight produced. Our tables of data are easily manipulated and downloadable to support your research needs and covers factors from consumer attitudes to market forecasts.
Appendix – Internal Market Environment
Appendix – Broader Market Environment
Appendix – Market Value, Forecast and Segmentation
Appendix – Competitive Context
Appendix – Advertising Expenditure
Appendix – How Many People Own Bicycles
Appendix – How Often Do People Ride Bicycles
Appendix – What Do People Think About Cycling
Appendix – What Are the Key Motivations for Cycling?
Michael first joined Mintel in 1981, working in the Information Library before moving on to write for the company's journals, specialising in Leisure. In 1986 Michael went freelance and wrote and researched reports for Mintel across Leisure, Food and Drink and Retail. Since returning to the Mintel fold in 2009 Michael has specialised in Leisure and Media.