For reshoring production and improving market flexibility by manufacturing in Europe instead of Asia, the central European countries have always played a key role. Although no country has taken a leading role, like Portugal, that does not mean that the region plays a secondary role within the industry. Several new facilities were started in recent years and existing ones upgraded their output quality.

The fact that a major player like Accell Group has been struggling under a burden of heavy debts gives a clear indication of the difficulties in the market. The manufacturer saw its turnover decline 10% from €1.43 billion in 2022 to €1.3 billion in 2023 as sales declined across major European markets and inventory levels remained high.

Whereas spring 2023 didn't offer an upturn in e-bike and bicycles sales, setting the course for much of the rest of the year, market indicators are suggesting that 2024 could be the year of stabilisation within bicycle market. Major indicators in the Netherlands and Germany are already pointing towards slow but steady recovery in these major markets.

Undeniably European e-bike sales took a step back last year. In 7 European countries who already reported their market statistics for 2023, the total volume decreased by 8%, from 4,555,264 units in 2022 to 4,178713 last year.

The Taipei International Cycle Show is always a good moment to take stock of the market situation, but this year 'Taipei' prepares the business to become a 'better' industry and put its focus on sustainability and other ESG topics. Besides the current market conditions, this online magazine also explores several Taiwanese companies who have started adopting ESG solutions in their production practises as the industry prepares for the future.

Sustainability is becoming increasingly integrated into business practices in the bicycle industry. Be it at a manufacturing, distribution or company policy level, the bicycle industry is no longer resting on its laurels of having a 'green' product to sell to the public.