Shimano is active in Poland, Scandinavia, France, Turkey and the Benelux countries, for example, with its own branch that works the market independently. From July 1, Shimano will be taking over sales, marketing and service and warranty processing for bike parts for the Italian bike market itself with a branch in Milan.

As Shimano announces from its European headquarters in Nunspeet, the Netherlands, a staff of around 25 people is planned for the branch in Milan. This change in the distribution model also marks the end of a long-standing business relationship:

M.I.C. S.p.a. had been distributing Shimano's bicycle parts in Italy since 1979. Marc van Rooji, President of Shimano Europe Holding, says: "I would like to thank M.I.C. and Amedeo Colombo and his family for the cooperation for more than 30 years." And van Rooji adds that differences regarding the vision and strategy for future business led to the decision to go separate ways.

M.I.C. and Shimano remain committed to the joint venture for the Italian market that exists between the two companies for Shimano's fishing products.

www.shimano.com