Firefox Bikes in the fast lane

India will have around 35 more Firefox bike outlets in the next one year. Firefox Bikes Pvt Ltd operates 170 stores in the country at present and looks forward to add 30 to 35 outlets every year to its present kitty.

Sharing his business plan, Anil Gandhi, Marketing Head, Firefox Bikes Pvt Ltd, told Franchise India, “We are fast expanding into metro and tier II cities in the country. Of late, there has also been a good scope in tier III cities as well and we are moving towards that side too. We will come up with 30 to 35 outlets this year as we open the same number of stores every year. We presently run 170 stores in India.”

The brand has seen a good growth of its hi-end and premium bikes in the country. “Changing lifestyle, rising awareness and need for eco-friendly vehicles have led to the growth of these two segments at Firebox. Despite, the Indian bicycle industry witnessing stagnant growth over the last few years, Firefox has seen annual growth of 25 to 30 per cent,” Anil Gandhi added further.

The first company-owned Firefox Bike Station was opened in Delhi in April 2005. The Bike Station proved a success and provided the template for future expansion. Firefox teamed up with Trek Bicycle Corp, USA, for exclusive distribution of Trek in India in 2006. In 2010 this tie-up was further strengthened with the introduction of the iconic Gary Fisher Collection.