Hein Gericke brand remains in the UK

The successful bid of the German Hein Gericke Group has seen the company come out of administration as of Saturday September 8, with a commitment to retaining 16 of the original UK stores in the following locations:
Manchester, Stockwell, Southampton, Edinburgh, Farnborough, Gants Hill, Glasgow, Belfast, Maidstone, Preston, Leicester, Braintree, Aberdeen, Hanger Lane, Oxford and Chiswick.

UK Managing Director, Christoph Hansen, said: “We’re now looking to the future and are pleased to have been able to secure the jobs of the staff in the 16 retained stores. We are keen to improve our customer’s in-store experience and secure the future for our loyal customers and the UK team”.

Following a difficult trading period, where sales were affected by multiple factors, Hein Gericke entered administration on the 30th July.

Retail and Operations Manager, Alan Cundy, said: “The downturn in the market had affected some geographical regions more than others and we are very sad to see stores close, particularly due to the quality of both the teams and individuals involved.”

The re-launch of the UK is a key element of the restructuring of the parent group (Hein Gericke Germany) which operates in 7 European countries. The management group is supported by the Düsseldorf based lawyer Georg F. Kreplin, who has advised on the recent changes in German administration law.

The group Finance Director, Achim Wirths, sees a lasting change in the profitability and sustainability of the business model and reports that there has been an increased interest by operational and strategic investors.

The new company – Hein Gericke Motorcycle Equipment Ltd – has plans over the 2013 season to develop its 16 UK stores and website, making them the ultimate one-stop motorcycle clothing and accessories outlets.

Hein Gericke built its reputation based on offering quality products, with excellent service at good value. While this commitment remains, the company is now focusing on establishing the remaining 16 stores as the home of the biggest and best selection of motorcycle equipment in the UK.

Marketing and Communications Manager, Adam Clayton, commented: “Operating from 16 stores will allow us to offer a better range of products and means that we will be able to meet our future objectives.

“Our business principles continue to be based on offering the best selection of clothing and accessories at the best available prices, with the best possible customer service and after sales.”