The incentives launched by the government have caused a surge sales of new bicycles in Italy. According to data released on 9 June by Confindustria Ancma (National Association of Cycle Motorcycle Accessories), since the shops reopened their doors, sales of traditional and pedal assisted bikes have recorded an increase of as much as 60% on an annual basis. In fact, they rise to approx 540 thousand bicycles purchased by Italians after the closure period for the coronavirus in all points of sale throughout the country. In the month of May alone, according to the Association's estimates, the increase was around 200 items.
“The incentives have certainly significantly revitalized the market - writes Confindustria Ancma - the companies in the sector are working at full capacity to respond, not without some difficulty, in an adequate way to the growing demand we have registered in recent weeks. However, interest and demand around the bicycle are growing regardless of the incentives: as an association we ask the institutions to seize this opportunity to investing in a finally more widespread cycling infrastructure, safe, balanced and respectful of the interests of all road users”.
The number of new bicycles sold, continues the Association, "is growing even outside the restrictions identified by the Government measures (regional and provincial capitals even under 50 inhabitants, in municipalities with a population exceeding 50 inhabitants and in the municipalities of metropolitan areas), thus involving even less populous territories in a homogeneous way. We will monitor the actual application of the bonus, so that it is not an obstacle course for consumers and retailers or, worse, against the clock”.
