A new bike manufacturing business has been created to own and operate the Detroit Bikes brand. In a LinkedIn post over the weekend, the new company said it was thrilled to announce the formation and launch of Beacon Manufacturing, which was established through the acquisition of Detroit Bikes from Cardinal Cycle Group (CCG).
Cardinal Cycling Group acquired the assets of Detroit Bikes, including the brand, inventory and production facility in January 2022.
Beacon Manufacturing will continue to own and operate the Detroit Bikes brand.
Beacon Manufacturing will reportedly be led by bike industry veteran Gary Thornton, who will serve as CEO and as the president of Detroit Bikes. Thornton first joined Detroit Bikes after the CCG acquisition.
“Gary is thrilled to continue Detroit Bikes’ 13-year legacy of domestic bicycle manufacturing, contract manufacturing, assembly, and logistics support,” the company said in he post. “By moving operations to Newlab at Michigan Central, Beacon will be able to more efficiently scale their operations and capabilities by utilizing advanced machinery.”
Headquartered at Newlab Michigan Central in Detroit, Beacon Manufacturing said it will leverage over 10,000 square feet of dedicated lean manufacturing space. This reportedly includes advanced machinery such as robotic wheel building, laser tube cutting, and robotic welding.
The BeaconLab located within Newlab will reportedly offer access to fully equipped assembly stations for small and medium-sized mobility companies to lease on a short-term basis, with access to skilled support technicians for assistance. Larger-scale warehousing for distribution is also available.
“My time spent with the team at Detroit Bikes made me realize what a unique opportunity there is to grow mobility businesses in Detroit, Michigan. The possibility to continue the legacy of Detroit Bikes’ American manufacturing with the support of Michigan Central and Newlab is a recipe for success. Collaborating with Bloom’s growing network of mobility companies to provide innovative solutions and build the next generation of electric vehicles is extremely exciting and satisfying.” noted Gary Thornton, CEO, Beacon Manufacturing.
