Cycle Observatory – Growth in the cycle market driven by electric bikes and the development of French production

UNION sport & cycle, the leading professional organization of sports, leisure, cycling and active mobility companies, today unveils the results of its Cycle Observatory.

Since 1999, this study has provided an annual overview of cycle sales in France based on figures from the sector's various distribution channels with the assistance of the 6T firm.

Despite a difficult economic context, the overall cycle market (bicycles + parts and accessories) continued to grow in 2022 with a cumulative turnover of 3,6 billion euros, an increase of 5,2% compared to the previous year. This growth, which amounts to 52% over the last four years, is all the more remarkable given the global health crisis that occurred in the previous two years.

The cycle market driven by sales of electrically assisted bicycles but weakened by the decline in sales of conventional bicycles

With a +7% increase in its total turnover, the bicycle market, which now reaches 2,378 billion euros, is experiencing significant growth again this year. The main cause of this increase is that sales of electrically assisted bicycles have once again reached record figures with 738 units sold (+000% vs. 12). Conversely, sales of conventional bicycles fell by -2021% compared to 13 and are continuing a downward trend that began in 2021. This decline should be put into perspective, as it is mainly due to the decrease in sales of children's bicycles and entry-level bicycles, two product categories particularly affected by inflation.

The bicycle, the French's favorite means of transport

The bicycle nevertheless confirms its status as the best-selling means of transport in France, representing 43% of individual means of transport sold, which places it well ahead of scooters (26,5%) and cars (26%). Even if their effect remains difficult to measure, the aid for the purchase of electrically assisted bicycles introduced by the government has contributed to the positive results of the industry. These incentive measures are crucial to democratize the use of bicycles in France, particularly among the most modest households, and must therefore be perpetuated.

Increase in French production and replenishment of stocks

French bicycle production is on the rise, with 854 units produced in France, including 417% of electrically assisted bicycles, an increase of +52% compared to the previous year. According to projections, French bicycle production should exceed 7 units in 900. Italy (000%), Romania (2023%) and Portugal (21%) represent 15% of bicycle imports into France.

The return to normal of the supply chain has given way to an increase in inventories at all levels of the distribution chain.

Jérôme VALENTIN, vice-president of UNION Sport & Cycle, declared: “ Having experienced uninterrupted growth for 12 years, the e-bike has confirmed its status as the best-selling means of transport in France. However, with a market share of 28% and in view of the dynamics observed in the Netherlands and Germany – where it represents 57% and 48% of new bicycle sales respectively – its development potential is considerable. This dynamic, combined with our ambition to produce more than 2 million bicycles in France within five years, will make our country the economic leader in the bicycle market in Europe. With this in mind, we will sign a Sector contract with the public authorities in June 2023 in order to achieve our objectives.

Source: CP

=> SEE AS ​​WELL : All our News articles