WBIA elects new board and president

The World Bicycle Industry Association (WBIA) has announced the election of a new board and the appointment of Bayram Akgül as its new president.

Akgül was appointed member of the CONEBI board of directors in November 2023 and he will continue also in that position.

Akgül, who leads his family business, the Salcano Bicycle Company, takes a wealth of experience and a vision for the future of the bicycle industry.

Following the announcement, he said: “As new president of WBIA, I am grateful for the trust placed in me by all WBIA members.

“As president, I aim to initiate a second phase in our global partnership, strengthen operations, expand global networks, continue the work of the association on market data at global level, advocate at the UN, and drive sustainability in cycling.

“Together with our new board, we aim to strengthen these efforts and to promote the benefits of cycling worldwide.”

Joining him in the leadership team is Bob Margevicius, vice president of Specialized Bicycle Components, who has been appointed as the vice president of the WBIA.

Nominated by People for Bikes, the North American member of WBIA, Margevicius is a well-known figure in the industry across the globe.

His expertise is vast and he possesses a global network of contacts, as well as a commitment to advancing the global bicycle industry.

Margevicius said: “Cycling has been described by various industries as ‘the best kept secret for transportation, utility, health, fitness, environment and climate change’.

“Together with Bayram and the entire WBIA organisation we will aggressively show the world the hidden value of cycling. We will fight for the global recognition and respect cycling deserves”.

The other newly appointed members of the WBIA board are Robert Wu, chairman of the Taiwan Bicycle Association and chairman of KMC, alongside Aditya Munjal, representing the Indian Bicycle Manufacturers Association (AICMA).

The association has extended its thanks to the outgoing board members for their dedication and contributions.

A WBIA spokesperson added: “The association looks forward to a new era of growth and innovation under the guidance of the newly elected leadership.

“WBIA honours the memory of Erhard Büchel, our former president, whose visionary leadership and contributions to the global bicycle industry will be deeply missed.”