GARDEN GROVE, Calif. (BRAIN) — After 45 years in business, Pace Sportswear closed at the end of last month, the result of declining sales following the pandemic.
Company president Maria Marsh told BRAIN on Wednesday in an email that the company is looking for a buyer for the remaining inventory. Pace manufactured cycling headgear — including caps, skull caps, helmet liners, and headbands — and winter and base layers, and gaiters.
In 2021 and 2022, sales increased 40% year-over-year, Marsh said, but dipped 25% from before the pandemic in 2020. "There was a lot of disposable income and free time to ride," she said, adding the decision to close was made in August.
In April, another domestic clothing manufacturer, Kitsbow Cycling Apparel, closed after failing to raise enough capital during a community financing round. In 2022, Kucharik Bicycle Clothing closed after 88 years in business.
Marsh said her future plans after selling equipment are to travel with her mom, Leonor Saavedra, and husband, John Marsh — "maybe a European bike tour" — before deciding what her next challenge will be.
"After that, I am not sure. Perhaps I will venture back into the apparel world or discover a new passion."
