Retailer Profile

Shop Bio-

B & L has been in business since 1965, we cater to the commuters and families, selling kids bikes all the way to entry level road, but mostly concentrating on the perfect commute bike for the flat lands of Davis.

Year Founded?

1965

Current Owners?

Beth Annon-Lovering

Is B&L on Facebook?

http://www.facebook.com/pages/B-L-Bike-Shop/149108018467487

How many locations does your store have?

1

How many people does your store employ?

14

What bike brands do you sell?

Electra, Fuji, Breezer, Se Racing, KHS, Manhatten, Free Agent, Schwinn & Linus

What attracted you to the bicycle industry?

The ability to get people out of their cars and onto a bicycle. We have to protect our environment and the bicycle is a good first step to reducing your carbon footprint.

What sets your shop apart?

B & L takes a serious interest in the needs and comfort of the beginning cyclist. B & L is far more interested in a new rider having a great bicycling experience then they are in shaving 5 grams off the drivetrain, or gaining another 5mm of travel.

What's your specialty?

Commuters and repairing anything that roles through the door.

What's hot right now? What are your customers asking for the most?

Fun, fashionable commuter bicycles

Who is the longest serving member of your staff?

Adam – 3 years

Who is your favorite customer and why?

Any person that walks through the door that wants to start or continue to ride a bicycle. Even if they are bringing a department store bicycle in for repair, they are riding a bike and that is what makes them special.

What are your aspirations for the future?

To continue to grow the commuting market in Davis, at one time we were at a 24% ridership and have fallen to 17%, I want to see Davis back above 25% in the next 5 years.

What part of the business are you most proud of?

My staff, they work so hard to make sure every customer leaves with a great experience and they all love helping that person whether it is a child’s first bike, a college student getting their first commuter bicycle or just equipping a bicycle with all the accessories the customer needs to make the bicycle experience fun!

Are you involved in advocacy?

Yes, we support Bikes Belong, IMBA, LAB, Yolo Transportation Management Association (Yolo TMA) Davis Bicycles and the Davis Bike Club.

Whats the best thing about working in the bike industry?

The people I have had the pleasure of working with over the years.

What clubs or teams do you sponsor?

We don’t really sponsor any club, but we support the Davis Bike Club

Do you have a favorite pro bike racer?

Levi Leipemier