Backcountry, the outdoor gear and apparel retailer recently acquired by CSC Generation, has purchased Velotech Inc., the Portland, OR-based cycling retailer known for its BikeTiresDirect, Western Bikeworks, and TriSports brands. This marks Backcountry’s second acquisition in 45 days, following its July 24 purchase of Utah retailer Level Nine Sports.
Terms of the latest deal were not disclosed.
Schottenstein affiliates Second Avenue Capital Partners (SACP) and SB360 Capital Partners (SB360), providers of custom solutions for the retail and consumer product sectors, along with Ares Commercial Finance (Ares), closed on a $112 million Senior Secured Revolving Credit Facility and Term Loan for Backcountry last September. The new financing package refinanced a previous facility and supported Backcountry’s acquisition by venture-backed CSC.
Backcountry said in a media release that this latest move “strengthens Backcountry’s position in the growing U.S. cycling market and broadens its ability to serve riders nationwide.”
“Velotech has grown into a leading internet retailer for road cycling gear by prioritizing customer service with competitive pricing, same-day shipping and a commitment to quality products,” Backcountry noted. Velotech reportedly serves commuters, triathletes, road cyclists, cyclocross racers, and mountain bikers, all rooted in its mission of “cyclists serving cyclists.”
Velotech reportedly carries a broad range of manufacturers across cycling components, apparel, protection, and nutrition categories, which are reported to complement and strengthen Backcountry’s outdoor and cycling assortments.
“Velotech’s cycling-first DNA and operational excellence make them a highly strategic addition to Backcountry,” said Kevin Lenau, interim CEO at Backcountry. “This partnership is rooted in brand independence and fueled by a shared ambition to better serve riders everywhere.”
Backcountry also highlighted Velotech’s headquarters and will-call showroom in Portland, providing regional accessibility and nationwide delivery. The company also maintains strong community ties.
The companies said Velotech will continue to operate its existing sites independently. “Over time, Backcountry and Velotech will explore opportunities to collaborate on product assortment, rider education, content and fulfillment to further enhance the customer experience.”
“We’re excited to join the Backcountry family,” said Jay Torborg, CEO of VeloTech. “Backcountry’s scale and outdoor expertise will help us serve more riders than ever, while staying true to our roots.”
Image courtesy Velotech, Inc.
