Backcountry.com LLC led a group that invested $2.6 million in Beeline Bikes, which plans to expand its mobile bike shop franchise nationwide.

Beeline Bikes, The Mobile Bike Shop, said it closed a $2.6M Series A financing round July 22, led by Backcountry.com, which is one of the largest online specialty retailers of outdoor gear and apparel. Backcountry.com is also the operator of Competitive Cyclist. With the investment, Beeline Bikes will expand its fleet of “We Come to You” mobile bike shops across the U.S.– using a franchise model and continuing to provide a convenient, customer-friendly channel in the bicycle industry.

Beeline Bikes has quickly grown in the San Francisco Bay Area to support many thousands of customers at their homes and at over 100 corporate locations.

The Mobile Bike Shop provides a full retail experience and establishes a one-to-one mechanic to customer interaction. Beeline has developed the technology platform, support infrastructure and comprehensive supply chain to enable independent mechanic franchisees to run their own mobile bike shop and delight each customer.

“We are thrilled to have the support of Backcountry with its compelling brand and passionate customers,” said Pete Buhl, co-founder and CEO, Beeline Bikes. “We look forward to partnering with Backcountry to innovate the bike-buying experience by marrying a dynamic online presence with professional in-person service. We are reaching a seminal time, when the convergence of technology, commerce and the customer's increasing expectation of convenience provides a unique opportunity for a new business model.”

“Beeline Bikes provides an amazing customer experience and has built their business to scale globally,” said Jill Layfield, CEO, Backcountry. “By bringing the bike shop directly to the customer, Beeline Bikes is offering the ultimate in convenience. We are extremely excited about this announcement and look forward to collaborating with Beeline Bikes as they continue to grow.”

The Beeline model represents a departure from that of a traditional bike shop in that it focuses on empowering the mechanic.

“Our model was designed with mechanics in mind,” said Neil Macc, VP of operations. “Having worked in the bike industry for over 16 years it's exciting to deliver a model that values a mechanic's expertise, allows them to participate in the economics of product sales, and provides them the opportunity to build a long-term relationship with the customer. Now mechanic franchisees can build a financially rewarding business in the industry they are passionate about.”

Beeline Bikes is currently offering franchises across the U.S. Interested franchisees are invited to participate in “Discovery Day” at Beeline's Headquarters in San Carlos, CA. For more information, visit beelinebikes.com/franchise or contact franchise@beelinebikes.com.