BikeBiz Bicycle and cycling retail news
The London Bike Show is launching the Innovation Lab, in association with BikeBiz, at the 2015 Show.
Showcasing the latest innovations in cycling, the Lab will feature ground-breaking concept bikes, mobile apps, technology, start-ups, transport schemes and the latest innovations in safety equipment, kit, accessories and clothing.
The Lab taps into the trend in development and innovation, which has seen numerous cycling brands find success through crowd funding websites such as Kickstarter and BBC TV series Dragon’s Den.
The Innovation Lab will offer brands and companies chance to position their product at the forefront of development and innovation within cycling in front of thousands of visitors – including over 300 members of national, regional and specialist press and over 1,500 industry professionals (2014 stats) – including senior staff from the UK’s largest cycling distributors, retailers and FMCG brands.
Innovative products which have previously benefitted from being part of the Show include the World’s first 3D printed bike, which was developed by British firm Empire Bikes. The bike received worldwide press with the article on PinkBike receiving in excess of 3.3k Facebook shares and was circulated across the globe. Other brands that have used the Show as a platform for new products include HipLock, Blaze, Ashmei and Aprire Bicycles.
The most innovative product featured in the Lab will be in with a chance of being awarded The London Bike Show Innovation Award.
BikeBiz will be running a preview feature prior to the Show as well as a review of the products in the April 2015 issue.
Jonathon Harker, BikeBiz editor, commented: "Innovation drives the bike industry forward and we’re seeing more and more new companies and fresh ideas being developed by enthusiasts and trade professionals alike. It’s great that The London Bike Show will be showcasing them in the Innovation Lab and we’re delighted to be a part of that."
Exhibitors sign up
Meanwhile, a number of new exhibitors have confirmed their attendance at the 2015 Show, including Caterham Cycling – a brand who aren’t shy of innovation themselves having used its composites knowledge, stemming from decades of designing for motorsport, marine and aerospace, in the field of two wheels to create a truly European bike.
Nicola Sykes, Marketing Representative from Caterham commented: “The first 5 bikes, consisting of 4 carbon and 1 steel, got a great reaction at their Eurobike launch in August and we’re excited to be able to bring further models to London in 2015. With some unique, innovative and stunningly beautiful features, we’re sure they’ll turn some heads in London too.”
Other exhibitors who have recently confirmed their attendance at the Show include Moore Large, Canyon, Paligap and Raleigh, who have joined the likes of Madison, Schwalbe, Extra UK and Tri UK in confirming their presence at the event.
The London Bike Show – Driven by SEAT takes place 12 – 15 February 2015 at ExCeL, London, and is hoping to attract in excess of 50,000 visitors.
Steve Clark, Group Show Director, Active Portfolio, Telegraph Events, said: “The Show is developing really well and we’re looking forward to hosting the largest Bike Show the UK has ever seen in February at ExCeL. We want everyone to be able to get involved and a discounted presence in the Innovation Lab will allow start-ups the opportunity to be present at the Show.”
Limited stand space is still available at the Show, and a discounted package is available for brands wanting a place within the Innovation Lab. If you’re interested in getting involved please call Dan Moseley on 0207 931 3957, Frazer Clifford on 07889 362775 or Matt Letch on 07951 601109.
