ZyroFisher, the leading cycling parts and accessories distributor in the UK and Ireland, has acquired Royal Velo France (RVF), a distributor of leading cycling parts and accessories in France, from the Exxem group.
ZyroFisher, formed in 2016 through the combination of cycling parts and accessories distributors Zyro and Fisher Outdoor Leisure has headquarters in Darlington in the north of England and represents over 50 market leading brands including Giro, SRAM and Tacx as well as its proprietary clothing, luggage and accessories brand, Altura.
RVF, based in Troyes, is a key partner for leading brands such as Sidi, Giro, Bell and CamelBak in the French market and has established a strong position in the distribution of cycling parts and accessories in France.
Exxem is headquartered in Annecy, France and is active in the Bike, Outdoor, Winter, and Water sports categories through RVF and SportPulsion.
Following investment in ZyroFisher by UK private equity firms Palatine Private Equity and LDC in 2017, this acquisition allows ZyroFisher to build on the significant experience of both businesses in their respective territories to accelerate the growth of the combined group.
Matthew Barker, CEO of ZyroFisher, says: “This acquisition is the first step in ZyroFisher’s strategy of utilising our substantial experience and market leading proposition to support growth in markets where we see huge potential. We are thrilled to have the opportunity to work with Christophe Soenen and the RVF team to maximise RVF’s potential.
Ed Fazakerley, Partner at Palatine Private Equity, says: “ZyroFisher has established itself as a leading provider of cycling equipment in the UK, and the acquisition of Royal Velo France will enable the company to build its footprint further in Europe.”
Peter Hughes, president of Exxem and former President of RVF, says: “We are proud to have been involved in the recovery of RVF since our takeover in 2013 and the company is in great shape for the future. This acquisition will allow RVF to begin a new phase of its development for the benefit of its customers and brand partners. I see a great fit between ZyroFisher and RVF and wish the enlarged group the best of success for the future. SportPulsion, which has always operated entirely independently of RVF, will continue its own development in its current categories.”
