Bicycle manufacturer Batavus bankrupt after years of COVID struggles

The Dutch bicycle manufacturer Accell Group, owner of brands such as Batavus, Sparta, Koga, Haibike, and Raleigh, has been declared bankrupt. On Tuesday, the Amsterdam court revoked the suspension of payments. The receivers are investigating whether parts of the group can make a fresh start.

From bike craze to overstock

The bankruptcy follows years of difficulties. During the COVID-19 pandemic, demand for bicycles skyrocketed, prompting retailers and manufacturers to significantly increase their inventories. When demand fell back after the lockdowns, the sector was left with large surpluses. Compounding the problem in 2024 was the recall of 22,000 Babboe cargo bikes after issues with breaking frames came to light.