Leeds entrepreneurs launch new online cycling retailer

Two Leeds-based entrepreneurs have launched a brand new online cycling store.

Spin Shed, which has been developed by Katie Barwood and Jules Pearce, showcases independent brands from around the world, including several from closer to home.

Alongside brands from the UK, US, Belgium and the Netherlands, a number of Yorkshire brands will be present from the outset.

The Yorkshire brands include cycling luggage maker, Restrap, Leeds-based apparel brand, Paria, and photographer to the cycling professionals including Team Sky, Russ Ellis, whose prints from races such as the Tour de France will be on sale through SpinShed.com.

The retail concept brings together a mix of cycling apparel, luggage, gifts and art. The site has launched with 12 brands, and has plans to expand with new partners on a regular basis.

Katie Barwood, co-founder of Spin Shed, said: “Two years ago, I was planning my first major cycling challenge with a friend – cycling the length of France, from St. Malo to Nice.

“It was really hard to find cycling kit that suited my style, but what I realised, was that this wasn’t through a lack of available choice, but rather customers didn’t know about all these great alternatives.

“Having researched independent and stylish brands from around the world, we wanted to create something that allowed customers to reach all these great brands in one place, mix and match styles, and give them a real choice.

“We both cycle in Yorkshire, and are lucky enough to know some of the great cycling businesses from the region. We’ve spoken to brands from around the world, but it’s great to showcase the talent and style that’s available from right here in Yorkshire, and hopefully get them even better known as a result.”

The site has a wide range of male, female and unisex styles, and due to its new business model, allows brands to showcase their entire range, rather than a select few items.

Among the brands Spin Shed has been working with ahead of launch is London brand Pente, which created a jersey that will be exclusively available via the site. Iris Slappendel, the 2014 Dutch National Road Race Champion, will also stock her range.

The Spin Shed team also worked with an independent Leeds coffee roaster, North Star, to create a cycling specific coffee which will also be exclusively available via SpinShed.com.