At its 2026 annual general meeting in Hamburg on April 17, Germany’s bicycle industry association ZIV sent a clear signal that the sector is preparing for a more coordinated future. Members unanimously approved plans for management to prepare a merger with Zukunft Fahrrad in 2027, aiming to combine expertise, improve efficiency, and strengthen the industry’s voice in policy and market representation.

The meeting also brought leadership updates. Annalena Horsch of Coboc and Oliver Venohr of Büchel were newly elected to the board, while several existing presidium and board members were confirmed. ZIV also recognized the long-standing contributions of departing board members Wilhelm Humpert and Fabian Auch.

Beyond governance, ZIV used the event to highlight its forward-looking agenda. Members were given a preview of the new “towards tomorrow – Cycling Industry Convention 2026,” which will debut in Berlin on November 5 and be hosted jointly with VSF and Zukunft Fahrrad. ZIV CEO Burkhard Stork also introduced plans for a new international trade fair set to launch in autumn 2027, following unsuccessful negotiations over the future direction of the former leading global show.

Despite ongoing market challenges, ZIV struck a cautiously optimistic tone. The association said 2025 market data point to a stabilizing industry that continues to generate long-term value. Representing around 140 member companies, ZIV says its members accounted for about 90% of Germany’s bicycle and e-bike production in 2025, underlining its central role in shaping the next phase of the market.

Photos: ZIV

ZIV CEO Burkhard Stork.
Photos: ZIV