The Retail Blueprint: Prof. Rob Bentley, Evans Cycles | The BikeBiz Podcast #7

How does a craniofacial trauma surgeon apply large-scale organisational strategy at Evans Cycles?In Episode #7 of the BikeBiz Podcast, host Pedro Couto Lopes sits down with Professor Rob Bentley, Managing Director of Evans Cycles, for an in-depth conversation on omnichannel execution, high-street store footprints, and the future of UK cycling retail.Prof. Bentley pulls back the curtain on how Evans Cycles is integrating its 60+ physical store network with digital commerce, where opening a physical store creates a 7% lift in local e-commerce sales, and click-and-collect orders generate over 120% of store turnover in key commuter hubs. Plus, he shares why Evans views Independent Bike Dealers (IBDs) as vital collaborators, not competitors, in growing the £2 billion UK cycling market.What We Discuss:✅ Translating NHS trauma leadership and MBA strategy to retail operations.✅ How physical stores act as trust anchors and drive digital sales.✅ Why independent bike shops remain the vital backbone of the UK trade.✅ Investing in Cytech apprenticeships across 60+ stores.✅ Full endorsement of the E-Bike Positive Trustmark to protect riders and retailers.✅ Why the trade must stop the "race to the bottom" and start lobbying for safe cycling infrastructure.📩 Partner With Us: Contact [email protected] for our media pack.🔊 Amazon Music: Listen completely hands-free by asking Alexa to "Play the BikeBiz Podcast."