Aberdeen city centre bike shop announce sudden closure after 35 years

An Aberdeen city centre bike shop which has been in business for more than three decades has announced its sudden closure.

Alpine Bikes on Holburn Street say they are reluctantly bringing down the shutters for the final time after what had been a challenging spell post-Covid.

Founded by David McKay, the shop was launched back in 1989 before it was taken over by retailer Tiso 18 years ago, whose John Street store remains open.

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The shop's owners blamed the post-pandemic market, and said that the store had become no longer commercially viable.

A statement posted on the bike shop's website reads: "We have reluctantly taken the difficult decision to close the Alpine Bikes store on Holborn Street in Aberdeen.

"Alpine Bikes was founded by David McKay and has traded from the same location for 35 years and under Tiso ownership for the last 18 years.

"This is not a decision taken lightly and follows extensive efforts to adapt the local offering and operating structure following an ongoing programme of investment.

"Unfortunately, various factors have combined to such an extent that the store is no longer commercially viable. The post-Covid bike market remains very challenging, particularly for stand alone bike stores.

"Alpine Bikes continues to have a growing online and digital presence alongside the balance of the Alpine estate which includes dedicated space inside Tiso Outdoor Experience stores in Inverness, Aviemore, Perth, Edinburgh and Glasgow along with a hire and retail centre at Glentress Peel in the Tweed Valley.

"We would like to take this opportunity to thank all our customers for their support and loyalty over the years and we hope to see you in one of our other Alpine Bikes stores soon.

"Please note that Tiso located at John Street, Aberdeen is unaffected by the decision. The stores final day trading will be Friday, November 8.