A WHEELY proud Warwick businessman is urging people to back British trade during the uncertainty of Brexit.
Gary Wythe, who owns Unleashed Cycles, is like many unsure what the after effects of Britain’s decision to leave the EU would have on his business.
But determined to keep his livelihood rolling, the 28 year-old decided British-made bikes were the way forward and is now Warwickshire’s first stockist of Orro Bikes.
The carbon and aluminium road bikes are designed and built in Sussex at the foot of Ditchling Beacon – an iconic climb in British cycling.
Gary told The Observer: “There is no disputing that Brexit has caused a stir – people have been wary of spending money which as a business is not good.
“But Britain has proven itself to be a cycling force to be reckoned with both on the track and in manufacturing with the likes of companies including Stratford-based Pashley, together with Brooks and Brompton.
“The London and Rio Olympics, and Bradley Wiggins’ and Chris Froome’s wins in the Tour de France, have really helped the industry and it’s a sport which is being well invested in.
“There is a big market for road riding in Warwickshire – let’s not forget that the Aviva Women’s Tour stormed through here last summer – and Orro seemed like the perfect choice for me as a British brand.
“And more people are choosing to cycle to work these days too to save money on running a car.
“I still stock brands which aren’t made in this country because you can’t have everything made in Britain. It’s a matter of the cost of production, but I think more people should back British brands and small, local businesses too.”
A keen cyclist himself, Gary set up Unleashed Cycles in 2013 on the Heathcote Industrial Estate. Before going solo he spent eight years working and training as a bicycle mechanic in a local bike shop.
Visit www.unleashedcycles.co.uk or www.facebook.com/unleashedcycles for more information.
