Frasers Group plc can today announce the appointment of Russell Merry as Managing Director for cycling. The Group currently operates from over 70 Evans Cycles stores as well as retailing an expansive collection of cycling specialist products across its Group portfolio, which spans 22 countries and over 500 stores.
Russell Merry joins the business with over 30 years in the cycle and action sports industry and most recently from Cycling Sports Group UK where he held the role of Managing Director. Alongside his UK role, Russell's career consisted of an international leadership position as General Manager Cycling Sports Group USA where he played a critical role in developing the North American business (Dorel Sports).
Russell Merry commented: “I am delighted to join Frasers Group and look forward to ensuring we continue to embrace the ethos of the bicycle industry and combine it with an elevated retail proposition that Frasers Group demonstrates so well.”
Merry joins Frasers Group with extensive knowledge of this industry and will lead the fast- growing category for the business. Merry will focus on the continued integration of Evans Cycles after its acquisition in 2018. He’ll also be adding specialist resources to this area of the business, finding new opportunities, and creating strategic brand exposure to ensure the business is meeting the ever-evolving needs of the consumer.
Sean Nevitt, Chief Commercial Officer at Frasers Group commented: “The Group has been on an expansive elevation strategy and as we continue our journey, we notice the ever-evolving demands of the cycling industry. Russell’s deep understanding will support the business and elevate our current proposition in this sector whilst finding new expansion opportunities.”
Frasers Group aims to be the UK market leader in the cycling sector.
ABOUT FRASERS GROUP
Frasers Group started as a small store in Maidenhead in 1982 and from there, grew to become a global powerhouse. As the Group evolved, in 2019 the business rebranded from Sports Direct International to Frasers Group plc and excelled in its strategy with its pioneering approach to retail. Led by Incoming Chief Executive Michael Murray, the business is set on a formidable upwards trajectory as part of its elevation strategy, as the Group aims to achieve its vision of serving customers with the world’s best sports, premium and luxury brands. The Group continues to re-think retail through store experience, digital innovations and an unrivalled product offering across its collection of established and diverse brand portfolios.
ABOUT EVANS CYCLES
Founded in 1921, Evans Cycles is the UK’s largest high street cycling retailer with 900 employees (including 100 fully qualified mechanics), over 70 stores across the country and a well-stocked website. Evans Cycles strives to champion great British cycling and inspire everyone to ‘Enjoy the Ride’, with products from the world's biggest cycling brands including Specialized, Trek, Brompton and Cannondale.
