Running a BMX Shop during the pandemic: Bikers Base (GER)

Feb 11, 2021

Written by Bart de Jong

Read 2827 times

Shop name: Bikers Base
Location: Hannover, Germany
Years in business: 11
Best year yet: 2013
Worst year yet: 2018

What were your first thoughts on Covid-19 when it hit in Germany?
Bikers Base: Perplexity, what is allowed, what is not allowed. How can we protect ourselves and customers in the store.

Did you take any action from the start or were you thinking this would be over in a few weeks?
Bikers Base: Masks since day 1. Out of respect for everyone.

Now, being in this situation for many months, how did you manage to keep your business rolling?
Bikers Base: Man, that was tough. From 100% to 10 Percent. We looked for possibilities, but with all the panic, hysteria and the unknown, it was difficult to understand and grasp. All of our eyes were then on our onlineshop.

The supply chain has also suffered. Has it been a challenge getting the bikes/product in stock that you needed for your customers?
Bikers Base: Of course. First of all there was the question of how the handover to the people takes place. Our Shop was open 24/7, because we repair all kinds of bikes, but we weren't allowed to sell any accessories in absolute lockdown. It's an absurd situation. Product procurement became increasingly difficult at the end of the year. Better E-Bikes in production than BMX Bikes. But hopefully it is just consolidating again.

Have you been able to keep your shop open all this time?
Bikers Base: Yes, repairs were allowed. Advice on the phone or by email. Buy products only with prior transfer of the amount and quick collection.

If so, what are measures you had to take to keep the door open?
Bikers Base: Only one person! We could certainly have let in several, but our protection and that of our customers would not have been guarenteed from our point of view. Germans like to queue anyway.

Have internet sales/mail-order sales made up for loss of shop sales?
Bikers Base: Good question, it didn't make up for it. Because people in core shops like to be advised and shop locally. And in normal times, both run parallel to each other.

During the pandemic has it been difficult to organize local events to support the local scene and get the customers in the shop?
Bikers Base: Our biggest concern was our local skate hall "Gleis D", which had just opened. So much love was put into it by so many people. A home for so many locals and friends from all over the world. But they too have found ways to continue to exist.

What mouth masks do you sell?
Bikers Base: With our zip code and our logo. Currently we give a free mask to every order as a "Dankeschön"

What are the plans for the shop for the coming months?
Bikers Base: We stay strong and try to make the best of the situation. No matter if BMX or something else, people support your little shops next door!

Thanks to?
Bikers Base: GleisD Skatehall, all of our distributions especially Björn at Sport Import and all of the locals who bought in the shop despite the most difficult circumstances. Support your Local Dealer!

Your website: www.bikers-base.com