Gilles Lapierre, former managing director of Cycles Lapierre, has broken his silence following the Dijon-based company's placement under judicial reorganisation. In a statement, he addresses the current situation of the brand, defends the record of his years at its helm and says he is prepared to contribute to a solution aimed at preserving both the company's activities and jobs.
No less than 10,000 e-bikes and e-scooters seized in the course of the European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO) investigation Calypso have been auctioned at bargain prices. According to EPPO, the sale generated €1.85 million, a small part of the financial effects from the ongoing investigation. "This is not what we want, and we would rather have them scrapped," said an EBMA spokesperson representing the European bicycle industry.
The Commercial Court of Dijon has officially opened the judicial reorganisation (redressement judiciaire) of Cycles Lapierre as it seeks independence from the now-bankrupt Accell Group. The French brand's CEO William Perrier is happy with the development: "We've got an opportunity. It's up to us to transform it into a future."
The Rebirth Group, owner of bicycle brands including Solex, Gitane, Peugeot Cycles, Cowboy and Angell, is pursuing an increasingly ambitious consolidation strategy in the European bicycle industry. At the same time, the French group is facing mounting financial and legal pressure, including eviction proceedings, unpaid debts and historically substantial losses.
Following Accell Group's Dutch suspension of payments, international subsidiaries are taking control of their own fate. Cycles Lapierre has filed for judicial reorganisation in France, while Accell UK & Ireland (Raleigh) has lodged a notice to appoint administrators.
A lively and dynamic tradeshow is not what you would expect in a gloomy market like France's. Still, that was the case at the Pro-Days event in Paris, which took place only a week after Eurobike. The total market volume in France decreased by 6% in 2025, while revenue was down 4.8% year-on-year. Moreover, this was the third consecutive year of market decline, and there is no outlook for sales improvement. Under those circumstances, you don't expect a dynamic trade fair, yet that was still the case.
