GREENVILLE, S.C. (BRAIN) — Michelin North America's bicycle tire unit has announced that Quality Bicycle Products will serve as the exclusive distributor for its products in the United States. Michelin has previously been offered by several U.S. distributors.
"QBP shares many common values with Michelin. We believe the distribution relationship will improve Michelin's access to the independent dealer network and large retailers alike. QBP's clear focus on our products will help re-establish the Michelin brand in the bicycle business with its unparalleled support of the retail channels across the board," said Tim Saunders, North American sales manager for Michelin Bicycle Tires.
Rich Tauer, QBP's president, said, "We could not be more excited about being Michelin's exclusive U.S. distributor. QBP and Michelin have worked together for several years in a multi-distributor environment and now a single distributor arrangement will allow Michelin to reinforce its specialty brand status in the retail bike channel. QBP will work with Michelin to develop a national brand strategy focusing on the specialty bike retailer. This approach will also allow specialty bike retailers to stock, promote, and sell Michelin tires with confidence in the brand's value and profitability. It's our belief that Michelin is a complete specialty brand that serves both the front and back of the bike shop with top quality products."
This exclusive partnership is effective Jan. 1.
