Mercian Cycles saved following acquisition by Derby-based group

The future of Mercian Cycles has been secured after it was acquired by a team of four passionate cyclists from Derby.

In May this year, it was announced that the nearly 80-year-old brand had ceased trading and entered voluntary liquidation.

Opus Business Advisory Group had been hired to assist with the winding down of the business, however after two months of uncertainty, a new era for Mercian Cycles is on the horizon.

In a joint statement posted online, the new owners said: “We are excited to announce the acquisition of Mercian Cycles, a beloved icon in the cycling community known for nearly 80 years of unparalleled craftsmanship and innovation in bicycle frame design. We have inherited an indelible legacy from all of the previous owners which we deeply respect and intend to honour as we move forward.

“We are a team of four passionate cyclists from Derby, dedicated to securing the future of Mercian Cycles in Derby. We will continue to hand-build our frames in the heart of England, maintaining the heritage and spirit of Mercian Cycles while fostering innovation and growth.

“We recognise the challenges faced by the previous owners and understand the deep connections many have with the Mercian brand. Our goal is to ensure a seamless transition, honouring the past while embracing the future.”

As part of this transition, it has been confirmed that the business has retained many of the “talented craftsmen” that manufacture each bike by hand.

The statement continued: “We would like to take this opportunity to thank Grant and Jane Mosley, who took over from Bill Betton in 2002.

“Grant, a long-time Mercian employee who started at a junior level, together with Jane, continued this legacy with great passion and commitment, maintaining the high standards and dedication to excellence that have always defined Mercian Cycles.

“It’s a testament to their passion for Mercian that they have continued to help us steer a course into this next era.”

The new owners have said they are “proud” to have saved Mercian Cycles, but now need help to keepit alive.

They added: “Your continued support and involvement are crucial as we embark on this new chapter.

“Thank you for your continued trust as we look forward to building on Mercian’s proud legacy, creating exceptional bicycles that honour the past, celebrate the present, and look toward the future.”

The value of the transaction has not been disclosed but BikeBiz understands it includes the brand’s intellectual property and website and will trade under a new Limited Company called Mercian Cycles Dervy Limited.