ASHEVILLE, N.C. (BRAIN) – The final Profitability Project meeting facilitated by the Mann Group took place last week in Calgary. The National Bicycle Dealers Association will take over the administration of its retail program going forward.
The Mann Group has served as an administrator of the NBDA's P2 program since it launched in 2006. Nearly 70 retailers have participated over the course of nearly a decade. The NBDA will continue to run the program, which brings together non-competing specialty dealers to compare, network, examine and analyze specific data from their businesses to help each other in operations and strategy.
The format is similar to "20 Groups," Mastermind Groups and the Young President's Organization that have been successful in comparable industries. Each group meets twice a year in alternating member locations and there is an administrative fee to participate.
The P2 groups have represented as much as 9 percent of total industry revenue, Mann said. Currently, 45 retailers are part of three groups.
"We have valued our nine-year relationship. It's been innovative, risk-taking and fantastic. We couldn't come to terms on a new contract. As a result of our inability to reach an agreement, we are going our separate ways and wish them the best," said Dan Mann, founder and president of The Mann Group.
In a letter to P2 retailer members, Mann noted, "This program has been a very important part of the Mann Group's work. We have learned much. We have been given many wonderful opportunities to work with the greatest bicycle retailers in the industry. Thank you for being a part of this great program. We'd like to thank the NBDA for this opportunity and we thank you for your commitment and your friendships for these years ... The Mann Group will continue with our mission to inspire retailers to change, learn and grow."
The Mann Group serves as administrator for similar programs in the run and outdoor industries.
