Cycling forward

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In this article you will learn

• Cyclable’s specialist bicycle retail and franchise business model
• Investment requirements and financial conditions for joining the network
• Franchise fees, training programmes and launch support
• Store revenue benchmarks and key operational responsibilities
• International presence and future growth opportunities

Founded in France in 2005, Cyclable is a specialist bicycle retail network focused on sustainable mobility, cycling for everyday use and outdoor recreation. Its stores offer a broad range of products, including electric bicycles, cargo bikes, folding bikes, urban bicycles, gravel bikes, touring models, accessories and cycling equipment. Customers also benefit from professional advice, test rides, maintenance and repair services.

What distinguishes Cyclable is its combination of specialist retail expertise, a carefully selected portfolio of bicycle brands and a collaborative franchise structure. Franchisees benefit from negotiated purchasing conditions, an established brand, a central e-commerce platform and services such as click and collect. The concept is designed to serve customers looking for alternatives to car travel as well as families, commuters and cycling enthusiasts.

Cyclable operates primarily in France, with a presence in Switzerland and other international markets. The company reports a network of more than 80 stores, while the French Franchise Federation lists eight international units. Its development strategy focuses on expanding the network through entrepreneurs who share its commitment to cycling and sustainable transport.

Investment, franchise fees and support

Becoming a Cyclable franchisee begins with an initial discussion with the company's development team. Candidates are assessed according to their entrepreneurial motivation, management and commercial abilities, financial resources and understanding of the local market. Applicants can propose a new location or explore the possibility of converting an existing bicycle shop to the Cyclable brand. The company works with prospective franchisees to assess the catchment area, identify suitable premises and prepare a viable business plan.

The official franchise website estimates the total investment required to open a store at between €200,000 and €400,000, including initial stock. Candidates must provide at least €70,000 in personal funds, while bank financing may cover up to two-thirds of the total budget. The network membership fee is €23,000 excluding VAT, payable progressively as the project advances. These amounts should be confirmed with Cyclable because the final budget depends on the premises, store configuration and individual project.

Ongoing fees include a franchise royalty of 3% of turnover and a contribution of 1% of turnover towards national marketing. The shared enterprise resource planning, point-of-sale and stock-management system starts at €115 per month excluding VAT. Together, these fees provide access to the network's commercial infrastructure, brand development and central services.

Cyclable supports franchisees throughout the preparation and launch process. Assistance includes business-plan development, financing arrangements, property searches, lease negotiations, estimates for renovation work, store layout and merchandising, and the preparation of a local communication plan. New franchisees also receive a discovery day, a fundamental training programme lasting approximately one month and at least two weeks of practical immersion. After opening, they can benefit from operational guidance, performance monitoring, technical training and exchanges with other members of the network.

Revenue potential, responsibilities and expansion

Cyclable publishes financial indicators to help prospective franchisees assess the commercial potential of a store. Its official franchise website reports average store turnover of approximately €900,000 and indicates that a well-established store may reach around €1 million in annual revenue excluding VAT after three years. These figures are indicative rather than guaranteed. Actual results depend on location, competition, product mix, stock management, staffing costs and local demand for bicycles and related services. Turnover should not be confused with profit or the franchisee's personal income.

Franchisees are responsible for managing their stores, recruiting and supervising employees, providing customer service, maintaining stock availability and monitoring financial performance. They must also ensure that bicycles are presented and sold in accordance with the network's standards, oversee repair and maintenance services where offered, and develop relationships with customers and the local cycling community. Effective purchasing, inventory control and cost management are essential in a business that requires substantial investment in merchandise.

Cyclable continues to develop its franchise network and recruit entrepreneurs across France. Its model is built around the growing role of bicycles in urban transport, family mobility and recreational cycling. Electric and cargo bicycles represent important product categories, while professional services such as bicycle fleets and long-term leasing create additional opportunities to serve businesses and public organisations. International development is also part of the network's wider presence, although the availability of new franchise territories must be confirmed directly with the company.

For entrepreneurs seeking to enter the bicycle retail market, Cyclable offers an established specialist concept, structured training and ongoing commercial support. The opportunity requires significant initial capital and active day-to-day management, but it provides a defined business framework in a sector closely connected with sustainable mobility.

Main conclusions

• 2005 – Year Cyclable was founded in France.
• 80+ stores – Reported size of the retail network.
• €200,000–€400,000 – Estimated total initial investment, including stock.
• €70,000 – Minimum personal contribution required.
• €23,000 – Initial franchise fee, excluding VAT.
• 3% of turnover – Ongoing franchise royalty.
• 1% of turnover – National marketing contribution.
•  €900,000 – Reported average annual store turnover.
• €1 million – Indicative annual turnover for a well-established store after three years.

Author

Agnieszka Bąbik

Journalist