Kent International Inc., a global supplier of bicycles and accessories, has purchased Stoneridge Cycle Ltd., a Canadian-based supplier of bicycles and accessories.
The addition of Stoneridge Cycle to the Kent International family will allow the two companies to achieve greater cost efficiencies and better cater to new markets and changing demographic segments in the cycling market.
“Kent International has a long tradition of partnering with Stoneridge Cycle on many brands. We have seen their business thrive and are intrigued by the possibilities for achieving greater scale and cost efficiency by working more closely with one another,” said Scott Kamler, President of Kent International.
Stoneridge distributes its bicycles through leading Canadian national retailers and the company will remain headquartered in Canada.
“Stoneridge Cycle is dedicated to providing safe, creative and affordable bicycles to the Canadian market,” said Randy Johnson, President of Stoneridge Cycle. “Kent has worked closely with and been a mentor for Stoneridge Cycle from its inception and we share a common vision of offering great bicycles at affordable prices for children and adults.”
This news comes on the heels of the opening of Kent International’s USA bike factory in Manning, South Carolina. Production began on October 15 and Kent will use the BCA brand (Bicycle Corporation of America) for these bicycles. There are already plans to supply bikes to Canada starting in May of 2015. Kent has worked closely with South Carolina and Governor Nikki Haley and has received an amazing amount of support. Kent is planning a total investment of approximately $10 Million during the next 4 years. More than 200 jobs will be created by this new venture.
About Kent International
Kent International Inc., headquartered in Parsippany, New Jersey, was founded in 1958 and has grown to be one of the largest suppliers of imported bicycles and accessories in the USA.
Kent International designs innovative products that get you moving. Its bicycles and related accessories incorporate the latest advances in design and technology at an affordable price.
Kent International markets its bicycles and accessories through large retailers, including Toys “R” Us and Walmart, as well as Internet marketers, such as Amazon. Its bikes appear under brand names that include: Kent, BCA, Goodyear, Razor, Little MisMatched, Pinkalicious, Jeep, GMC and X-Games. For more on Kent, see: www.kentbicycles.com
About Stoneridge Cycle, LTD
Stoneridge Cycle, based in Ontario, Canada, is a supplier of bicycles and bike accessories to the Canadian market. The company began by launching the Wee Ride front mount child carrier for bikes and later expanded to a full line of bicycles and bike accessories. For more information see: www.stoneridgecycle.com
