SCOTTS VALLEY, Calif. (BRAIN) — Accessory manufacturer Blackburn Design announced a partnership with Walmart on Thursday to offer products from 10 categories, including pumps, lights, locks, and tools.
Blackburn said in a news release it's providing products to the big-box chain in order to "meet demand for quality accessories by bringing the product to a broader base of cyclists in the U.S."
In addition to being sold in all Walmart stores, Blackburn accessories will be available online through Walmart.com.
"As millions of people enter the cycling space via product purchased from Walmart each year, a growing segment of these customers are seeking to enjoy the benefits of cycling, and to take their riding further," according to the news release."Ultimately, the experience these customers have will influence their enthusiasm for cycling and create an opportunity to grow the sport across all channels and segments. This move will create a larger and more diverse generation of cyclists and increased demand for the Blackburn brand."
Walmart is owned by the Walton family, which has growing interest in cycling. The family's foundation has supported development of bike trails, facilities, and events in its homebase of Bentonville, Arkansas, which has become a major cycling destination. Walmart also unveiled the high-end bike brand Viathon almost two years ago.
RZC Investments, founded by Tom and Steuart Walton, grandsons of Walmart founder Sam Walton, made news in 2017 by buying a 95% share of the British clothing brand Rapha. RZC also has invested in Allied Cycle Works, the high-end bike manufacturer in Little Rock, Arkansas.
Vista Outdoor also owns Bell Sports, whose products are also available at Walmart. Blackburn has designed and marketed accessories since 1975.
