With the economic recovery in Europe and the U.S., major bicycle manufacturer Merida (9914) has seized the opportunity to launch new models, shifting next year’s shipping focus toward higher-priced road bikes. Merida Vice President Shih Shih-yen stated that the proportion of road bike sales in total revenue will rise from 20% to 30%, with dealers already starting to restock, showing a positive response.
Merida achieved a record-high monthly consolidated revenue of NT$2.953 billion in July, driven by the stocking effect of its new model year lineup. Cumulative sales in the first seven months exceeded 1.4 million units, pushing consolidated revenue to NT$15.386 billion, putting the company on track to earn an entire share capital’s worth this year.
Before the European Bicycle Show, Merida unveiled its 2015 new models in Taipei yesterday. Compared to previous years’ focus on mountain bikes, this year the company has particularly strengthened its road bike product line, including the Reacto, Ride, and Scultura—three road racing bikes targeting different needs—and has also introduced its first disc brake models and triathlon-specific bikes.
For mountain bikes, Merida launched three hardtail models with varying wheel sizes: the BIG 9, BIG 7, and MATTS. Notably, crossover models were also unveiled, including the JULIET special edition designed for women, as well as the MATTS Junior models for teenagers and children.
Shih Shih-yen noted that last year, Merida’s title sponsorship of the “Merida-Lampre” team’s star rider Rui Costa helped the cyclist win the overall title at the Tour de Suisse, boosting the visibility of its road bikes and driving a sharp increase in sales.