Irvine, California– The National Bike Dealers Association is pleased to announce three newly elected members of the Board of Directors: John Robinson of Johnny Velo Bikes in Columbus, Ohio; Joseph Du Bois of Trek Bicycle Stores in Florida; and Chris Kelly of Topanga Creek Outpost in Topanga, California. The new members will serve a three-year term on the seven-person board, beginning immediately.
NBDA president Brandee Lepak says, "Our goal is to support specialty bike dealers across the country with resources, education, and advocacy for the value of our retailers. Our new members were elected based on the unique experience and expertise they each bring to the table."
John Robinson opened Johnny Velo Bikes in March 2018 after a 20+ year career as an efficiency consultant in the financial industry. "I opened a bike shop because I wanted to be the kind of shop I needed when I bought my first road bike--friendly, welcoming, eager to help new cyclists get started. It's an honor to have the opportunity to serve the NBDA. I'm looking forward to increasing membership, creating a shop standards certification, and finding ways to mentor new shop owners in the industry."
Joseph Du Bois has more than 25 years of experience in the bicycle retail. Du Bois has owned his own company for 13 years, which he has grown into nine Trek Bikes Florida locations throughout the state. Du Bois says, "What began as a passion for cycling has evolved into a passion for running a successful bicycle retail business. One of my strengths as a business owner is managing cash flow. I can help the NBDA develop direct, no-fluff education on this topic for member retailers."
Chris Kelly has been a bicycle shop owner for 20 years. Topanga Creek Outpost in Topanga, California, was acknowledged by the NBDA with an America's Best BIke Shop award, a BRAINy award, and an Innovation Award. "While awards are great," says Kelly, "my strength is in community involvement. I ride with my customers every week and we have countless adventures. The next generation craves contact with people. I can help NBDA member retailers strengthen their shops by becoming invaluable staples in their communities."
Learn more about the National Bicycle Dealers Association and programs to support its member retailers.
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About the National Bike Dealers Association:
The NBDA has represented specialty bicycle dealers in the United States since 1946. The non-profit association offers numerous programs for dealers, with an emphasis on education, research, communication and advocacy. There are currently 559 member shops, ranging in size from multi-store operations to mobile-only operators, hailing from all 50 states. For more information on the NBDA, visit their website at www.nbda.com.
