KKR has made a significant all-cash offer to acquire Accell Group, European leader in the e-bike market, for €1.56 billion, recognizing the sector's growth and potential.

Overview of Accell Group

Accell Group is the leading manufacturer of bicycles and bicycle components in Europe, specializing notably in e-bikes. The company operates under several prominent European bicycle brands, including Lapierre, Koga, Raleigh, and Ghost. Employing around 3,100 individuals across 15 countries, Accell Group distributes its products in over 80 countries worldwide. In 2020, the company recorded impressive sales, with 897,000 bicycles sold and a revenue of €1.3 billion. Accell Group's shares are actively traded on Euronext Amsterdam.

Industry Overview in the Netherlands

The e-bike market in the Netherlands has been on a significant upward trajectory, particularly accelerated by shifts in consumer behavior during the pandemic. As an alternative mode of transportation, e-bikes have gained substantial popularity, leading to a remarkable 17% year-on-year revenue growth for companies like Accell. The rise in e-bike adoption reflects broader trends towards environmentally conscious mobility solutions among consumers.

Despite the robust growth, the industry faces challenges. Major competitors, such as Giant Bicycles and Trek Bikes, are ramping up investments to capture market share. Additionally, Venture Capital investments in the e-b