Prendas Ciclismo is one of our favorite cycling shops. That’s not only because they’re long-time supporters of our work (it’s possible they wouldn’t want to be identified as such), but because their catalogue and accompanying content is always 100% on point and fully in touch with cycling culture. They’ve even resisted the Rapha bullshit that’s infected the entire industry–no mean feat as a retro clothing company.
Now they’re downscaling. Well, shit. The signs were there all along, what with all the clearance sales, but now it’s official. Here’s what Andy says:
On the year that Prendas Ciclismo celebrates our 25th year in business (along with twmp.net) we have taken the difficult decision to radically transform our business so that I (Andy) can pursue a new career in September.
I’ve been working full-time here since May 2004, and even before that, I worked helping Mick with his fledgling business with a variety of projects in my spare time.
It’s been a wonderful journey, with some great trips, some brilliant garments produced and most importantly some life-long friends made along the way.
However, it hasn’t been all plain sailing.
Since taking over the running of the business from Mick in 2017, the business has had to battle a number of adverse effects from the divisive BREXIT vote in 2016, many of which hit our bottom line hard.
This has meant that compromises had to be made, but most disappointing of all, it has also resulted in having to say goodbye to some loyal members of staff.
Whilst the COVID pandemic has hit many businesses and families very hard indeed, it has given us a unique opportunity to take stock of our situation, and rethink our future.
Prendas is currently undergoing a major operational shift, focusing primarily on casquettes and small accessories like socks and hats. To this end, they’re clearing a large percentage of stock… which means all their jerseys and bibs. Andy tells us, “If you have always wanted a San Pellegrino, Salvarani, Molteni, Watneys or Peugeot retro jersey now is the time to buy it.”
No more Mr Mapei. Which might be for the best. Sorry, Teebo.
To thank Prendas for all their support through the years, we’ll be linking relevant casquettes and other store inventory in all our future Tour de France 1980 series updates, starting with Tour de France 1984 this month. We’re not affiliates and we won’t make any money for this.
Andy signs off with, “We will still continue to promptly send out orders, whatever they might contain, with our usual care and attention.” Well, we wouldn’t expect anything less from one of the best in the industry.