Essendon Cyclery

LAST DAY OF "NORMAL" TRADING
This Saturday all accessories must go- tyres, lights, locks, seats, computers, helmets, clothing and shoes 30% off. We don't want to put them in boxes and we prefer they go to good homes. Bikes are for sale also but only discounted as on bike exchange. 10- 4 Saturday the 5th. Due to Covid restrictions 4 people in the store at any one time. Please share around as we want much stuff to go at stupid prices.

THE END OF AN ERA
It is with a heavy heart that we publicly announce the end of Essendon Cyclery in its current form in Essendon and wind out the retail shopfront if the business. Details and explanation below but important details first.

Effective immediately Essendon cyclery is closed for ALL repairs. During the month of December we will be completing ALL repairs still with us and fulfilling orders as possible in the current situation. The store will be open BY APPOINTMENT ONLY for this time for pre arranged purchase of bikes (must be discussed and booked by email before arrival) or collection of finished repairs. On Saturday 5th of DECEMBER we will have one final day of trade for the sale of floor stock of bikes and discounts as marked on accessories and spares. To view a list of bikes currently in stock please visit https://tinyurl.com/yyo2m3v5

Now the why.
2020 has been a tough year for all of us in our own ways but small business is never easy. It is the dream to be ones own boss and have a large number of customers who love and support us but it comes with its own stresses. We have spent a long amount of time building up our business and great customer following and sadly we have reached a point where to keep everyone happy we have to work long and hard hours with many staff working behind the scenes to work our magic. The dedication of our customers waiting patiently for up to a month for servicing is a testament to your loyalty and does not go unappreciated but sadly in busy periods it can lead to many early mornings and late nights to keep everyone’s rubber on the road.

I have been in the bike industry for 16 years and and owned the store for its 11 years and when we were younger we had a lot of energy to burn the candle at both ends. 2 years ago as we approached a happy medium as the business was reaching a point where we were becoming profitable the Daniel Andrews government’s (who have done a great job in the current crisis) level crossing removal cost us $150k of turnover and lost stock value this and their attitude of steamrolling small business out of legally required compensation just as we were reaching a critical point in the businesses life struck a terrible blow on us and our staff and the physical and mental health effects of that have compounded as we have tried to recover.

At this point we have literally run out of energy. Both mentally and physically. We know that our departure leaves many of you without a loved local repairs store and that in the future those who don’t know better will think that we are just another victim of a really tough year. But we have had your love and support through this as we did 2 years ago and it is not for financial reasons that we change our business model. After the 5th and a period of re-configuration, sales will be available through the website. The thing that makes Essendon Cyclery great is its people and unfortunately they need a change so we will miss you guys and hope that the future is brighter for all of us.

Lots of love Gareth and the guys

THE FUTURE OF ESSENDON CYCLERY

Corona Virus and the lock down has affected everyone differently. With 3 mechanics choosing to stay home we have managed as best we could for the past 8 weeks and focused on repairs to keep our customers rolling when other stores focussed or record bike sales. Unfortunately this has taken a toll on some of us with increased stress and no outlets available that we normally have for some it has gotten too much to bear.

Unfortunately because of this Riley has chosen to leave us and seek some alone time to sort things out. We fully support him in this move as without our mental health in life its hard to have much else sorted. We wish him a speedy recovery.

Going forward as the country returns to normality we will continue to do our best to keep everyone on two wheels but ask that you try to be a bit understanding as we get back up to speed.

Thanks to everyone for your love and understanding and thanks to Riley for his years of knowledge and personality in the EC family.