Member Article

Sporting chain Direct Golf expands into Huddersfield with new cycling offering

One of the UK’s most successful sporting retail chains, Direct Golf, has diversified into cycling with the opening of its first Bike-Shed.com store in Huddersfield.

The 4,000ft2 store, which has taken over part of the company’s flagship Direct Golf outlet, in Leeds Road, is open seven days a week and currently holds more than £150k-worth of stock.

Store manager Joe Vanyuscsak explained: “The diversification into cycling has been in the pipeline for a number of years. It was something our owner, John Andrew - who is a very keen cyclist - has been very keen to do for some time.

“But the time needed to be right, and the improvement in the economy allied to the Tour de France’s visit to Yorkshire this summer means the timing is perfect for us.

“And, of course, the Bike-Shed.com brand benefits from the experience gained in 23 years of successful retailing achieved by Direct Golf.”

“We’re currently stocking 50% road bikes and 50% off-road as both forms are increasing in popularity. We are catering for all levels of cyclist, from first-time buyer to the serious rider who requires a higher-spec bike and specialist advice and knowledge.

“To that end we have an in-house mechanic who is Cytech qualified - the bicycle industry’s recognised training and qualification scheme for mechanics and retail staff - heading our full service and repair centre.”

The store opened officially on Saturday, May 10, with a number of special offers, competitions and giveaways, as well as displays from a specialist trials display team.

It is anticipated the Huddersfield outlet will be a pilot project as there are another 15 of Direct Golf’s 20 stores nationally that could accommodate a similarly sized Bike-Shed.com outlet.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Clare Burnett .