NEWTON, Mass. (BRAIN) – Landry's Bicycles has purchased the assets of longtime Boston-area retailer International Bicycle Centers following the closure of IBC's two stores in early January.
In a message on IBC's website, owner Harold Knochin said that after 45 years in business, he was ready to retire. Landry's announced that it has signed a long-term lease for IBC's 9,500-square-foot Newton store and is planning to reopen it as Landry's sixth location. IBC's Brighton store and property has been sold to a private developer.
"I'll surely miss my customers," said Knochin. "Thanks to all of our customers for their support during the past 45 years."
Knochin began working at IBC while he was still in high school, after his brother Joe opened the store in 1969. Joe retired from the business in 2013. IBC was known for its long tradition of selling European racing frames, and was one of the first Boston retailers to sign on with Trek in the early 1980s.
Knochin said he was looking forward to a healthy retirement and more time with his family, and is confident that Landry's will take care of his customers and carry on the IBC legacy.
Landry's general manager Tom Henry has hired a number of former IBC employees to join the Landry's team.
"We look forward to providing Landry's high-quality customer service to the local cycling community around Brighton, Newton and surrounding towns," Henry said. "We are planning for a smooth transition, and Landry's staff are committed to welcoming and serving all customers in our local stores."
Longtime Landry's employee Patrick Flaherty will manage the Newton store, which will feature bikes from Trek, Electra, Seven, Pinarello, Parlee and others. "The Newton area is such a vibrant hub of cycling activity, and our new store really provides a wonderful space for a bike shop," Henry said. "We're looking forward to remodeling the store later this season after we settle in."
