Park City-based Backcountry, a specialty retailer of outdoor gear and apparel, has acquired Velotech Inc., a cycling retailer company in Portland, Oregon.
Velotech operates cycling category Internet retailers BikeTiresDirect, Western Bikeworks and TriSports.
“The move strengthens Backcountry’s position in the growing U.S. cycling market and broadens its ability to serve riders nationwide,” Backcountry said in its release announcing the acquisition. “Velotech has grown into a leading Internet retailer for road cycling gear by prioritizing customer service with competitive pricing, same-day shipping and a commitment to quality products.”
Repeatedly recognized among Portland’s fastest-growing companies, Velotech serves commuters, triathletes, road cyclists, cyclocross racers and mountain bikers under its banner “Cyclists Serving Cyclists.” The company carries a broad range of products in the apparel, protection and nutrition categories.
“Velotech’s cycling-first DNA and operational excellence make them a highly strategic addition to Backcountry,” said Kevin Lenau, interim CEO of Backcountry. “This partnership is rooted in brand independence and fueled by a shared ambition to better serve riders everywhere.”
Lenau said Velotech will continue to operate its existing sites independently. Over time, Backcountry and Velotech will explore opportunities to collaborate on product assortment, rider education, content and fulfillment to further enhance the customer experience, he added.
“We’re excited to join the Backcountry family,” said Jay Torborg, CEO of Velotech. “Backcountry’s scale and outdoor expertise will help us serve more riders than ever, while staying true to our roots.”
Established in 1996, Backcountry offers a selection of products from nearly 800 brands both online and across nine U.S. retail outlets. In addition to retail stores in Park City, the company has outlets in Boulder, Colorado; Bozeman, Montana; Los Angeles and Palo Alto, California, Seattle; Chicago; and Washington, D.C.