Evans Cycles: national bike firm opens second Preston store to power cycling boom in city

The firm, which came within two days of closing down its store on North Road in 2019, has now added a second store on the Deepdale Shopping Park.

And the company says the expansion is down to the city's growing reputation as a cycling hotspot in the North West.

Evans is looking to tap into the bicycle boom in Preston, sparked by the success of the iconic Guild Wheel and the recent roll-out of cycle routes like the "Cycle Superhighway" into the city from Penwortham.

The company, which was founded in 1921 in London, had 62 stores in the UK when it went into administration in October 2018.

It was bought by Mike Ashley's Sports Direct in a pre-pack administration deal for £8m. At the time Ashley said as many as half the stores faced closure with 600 jobs at risk.

Some branches did shut and the Preston store in North Road was on the hit list. But it survived by the thickness of an inner tube - saved just 48 hours before the axe was due to fall – and has now been joined by a smaller concession branch in Deepdale.

A spokesperson said the opening - as part of the new Sports Direct store in the former Toys R Us unit - was aimed at supporting "the needs of the growing number of cyclists in and around Preston, and promote cycling generally as an active form of transport.

"Preston has long been a hub of cycling with hundreds of miles of quiet country lanes ready to explore throughout the county and a variety designated cycling routes, on and off-road.

"It’s a perfect location for cyclists of all disciplines seeking a touch of adventure."

Covering 1,509 square feet, the new store will stock bikes across multiple disciplines, including road, MTB, hybrid, electric and kids bikes, clothing and accessories. The store will also include a workshop with staff on hand to help.

Commenting on the opening of the new Preston store, Michael Briggs, lead area manager at Evans Cycles, said: “We look forward to welcoming the Preston cycling community, instore – and helping more people to enjoy the ride.”