The NBDA Continues Its Efforts to Unite Retailers and Suppliers, Welcomes New Brands as Associate Members
The National Bicycle Dealers Association (NBDA) is pleased to welcome several bicycle brands, distributors, and other partners to the organization as associate members. Brands have been joining the NBDA as Associate Members to aid in their efforts to strengthen the bicycle industry through unification. The brands that recently joined include recognizable names like; Giant Bicycles, SRAM, Time, Rockshox, Zipp, Tern, Highway 2, Alta Cycling Group, Kuat, and Assos. These suppliers join an already impressive list of members including Specialized, Bianchi, Norco, Pivot, Brooklyn Bicycle Co., QBP, HLC, JBI, SmartEtailing, Clearly, Frog, BikeFlights, LightSpeed, and Bosch Ebike Systems.
“I am beyond thankful for the tremendous support from our industry,” says NBDA President Heather Mason. “We are tasking the ecosystem of the bicycle industry to come united, open to the possibilities ahead in this rapidly changing environment. We all want the same thing- success, happiness, and these magic moments. I could not be more impressed with our new associate members and their willingness to participate.”
Membership to the NBDA is open to all North American Retailers, Mobile Operators, Individuals (including Bicycle Shop Employees, Independent and Brand Representatives, Cycling Tour Guides, Bicycle Fitters, and Mechanics), and Associate members (an individual, firm, partnership, or corporation which serves as a supplier to the industry or is closely allied to the industry).
“At Alta Cycling Group, we are impressed with the work that is being done to revitalize the NBDA. Our industry needs a strong and progressive dealer association, and we are pleased to offer our membership and ongoing support to Heather and the membership,” stated Larry Pizzi, CCO of Alta Cycling Group.
Associate membership allows partners to participate in all NBDA organized events, including weekly member networking, virtual events, and webinars. The NBDA staff is working closely with association members and retailers to make sure there is the opportunity for cross-communication, moments designed to assist in moving collectively forward.
“It has been a great experience getting to know our associate partners on a deeper level. Several are joining our retailer networking events and taking the participation and interaction to a whole new level. I envision these conversations forming the groundwork for positive change. I only hope to see more brands connect,” says NBDA Development Director Rachelle Schouten.
Outside of weekly NBDA programs, the organization also has a close relationship with several industry trade shows, providing educational content at the shows. Working with associate members to unite efforts, the NBDA partnered with SRAM for the upcoming CABDA shows.
“We are thrilled to enter into a deeper relationship with the NBDA and their new President, Heather Mason”, states Scott King, Co-Founder and Director of Aftermarket – Americas for SRAM. “Her (Heather Mason) energy and commitment to the IBD experience, alongside her drive to create better connectivity for retailers and build more resources to drive end consumer behavior, aligns to the new direction we are in the midst of employing with our new Field Guide Team. We are both in the business of supporting and creating better experiences for our retailers and their communities.”
The NBDA is a non-profit organization supported by the membership of participating retailers and industry partners. NBDA activities and programming are created for businesses that sell and service bicycles by retailers, thought leaders, and industry experts. Its mission is to strengthen Specialty Bicycle Retailers through education, research, communication, and advocacy.
As CEO of Bianchi USA, Pat Hus stated, “Bianchi is extremely proud to support the NBDA and its members and looks forward to working closely with the leadership team and the board to support the prosperity of bike retail. The independent retailer has always been core to Bianchi’s business, and we believe strongly that the values and focus of the organization align nicely with our long-term goals.”
The NBDA is asking brands, suppliers, and organizations to consider a membership to the organization. For access to additional information on the NBDA and Associate membership visit NBDA.com. While you’re there you can join the NBDA or renew your membership online. There are many free resources on the website available to everyone, including the educational podcast Bicycle Retail Radio.
To learn more about Heather Mason or request an interview, contact her directly at heather@nbda.com.
Questions about joining the NBDA? Contact Rachelle Schouten, Development Director, at Rachelle@NBDA.com.
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The NBDA has been here since 1946, representing and empowering specialty bicycle dealers in the United States through education, communications, research, advocacy, member discount programs, and promotional opportunities. As shops are facing never-before-seen circumstances, these resources offer a lifeline. Together, we will weather this. We at the NBDA will not waver in our commitment to serving our members even during this challenging time—but we need your support.
Learn more about the benefits of being a member and join now.
