Beyond Bikes: Unlocking Scotland’s pedal-based transport industry

How can technology and innovation unlock Scotland’s pedal-based transport industry? Cycling is one of Scotland’s fastest growing sectors, with huge research and development potential for associated industries. From electric pedal-assisted vehicles to innovative cycling accessories, our SMEs are leading the way to developing sustainable, practical alternatives – whether in the established mountain biking sector or as an alternative to traditional forms of carbonised transport.

In conjunction with the Cycling World Championships which will be hosted in Glasgow and across Scotland in August, join us in person for our special-edition exhibition where you can network, meet the companies shaking up Scotland’s cycling industry and experience the latest tech from virtual reality to space data based products and the newest e-bikes disrupting the pedal-based markets

As well as hosting the inaugural Cycling World Championships this year (bringing together 13 international competitions in one country for the first time in 2023), Scotland is home to the Mountain Bike Centre of Scotland (MTBCOS), the world’s first centre for open innovation in the mountain bike industry - and a new Innovation Centre at Innerleithen, in the Scottish Borders, providing industry support with market research, developing, testing and launching new products.

With strong infrastructure and market opportunities, the future of the Scottish bike industry is bright. Hear how new tech and innovations in the circular economy and remanufacturing are revolutionising the industry.

14.00 - Welcome & Panel Discussion

15.00 - Audience Q&A

15.30 - 17.00 - Special-edition exhibitor and networking session with beers, wine & nibbles for In-Person Attendees (Meet the companies shaking up Scotland’s cycling industry, trial the latest products and tech disrupting the pedal-based markets and explore future innovations)

Chaired by Alec Seaman, Sustainability consultant, The Bicycle Association

Following a career as a Logistics Officer in the Royal Navy, Alec Seaman gained an MSc in Risk, Disaster and Resilience at University College London, focusing on the concentration of risk in container shipping. In 2020 he joined the Bicycle Association as the lead on issues around sustainability, authoring a research paper examining sustainability in the cycling industry. He represents the Bicycle Association at a European level as a founding member and Vice Chair of the CONEBI-CIE Corporate Social Responsibility Expert Group.

Alec also produces and hosts the Bicycle Association's podcast and webinar series examining sustainability, reshoring, new and disruptive business models and diversity, equity & inclusion.

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Alex Feechan, CEO, FINDRA

Alex Feechan is the founder and CEO of award-winning, premium outdoor lifestyle clothing brand FINDRA. Graduating from Heriot Watt University with a 1st Class Honors degree Alex went on to gain an MA in Fashion and Textiles from the prestigious Royal College of Art London before embarking on 25-year career that enabled her to travel all over the world as she worked on the design and development of knitwear for a number of International fashion brands, laterally working as the Design Manager for South Korean retail giant Eland.

Relocating to the Scottish Borders provided the inspiration and spark for Alex’s next big adventure, hooked on mountain biking, Alex felt driven to start her own outdoor clothing brand after struggling to find stylish yet functional clothing for outdoor activities. Combining her talent as a fashion designer with her passion for outdoor living Alex launched FINDRA in December 2014, growing it from a kitchen table venture to the thriving e-commerce business it is today.

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Ian Byrne, CEO, Route Assembly

As the CEO of Route Assembly, Ian Byrne brings years of experience and expertise in the bike manufacturing and assembly industry. With a deep passion for cycling and a strong ambition to make Scotland a hub for bike manufacturing, Ian has been leading the company towards achieving its vision of building a bike manufacturing and assembly hub. With his extensive work experience and education, Ian has been able to guide Route Assembly towards success. Building a team of dedicated professionals who share his vision and are committed to delivering the best possible products to the market ensuring innovation and creativity, helping Route to stay ahead of the curve in the ever-changing industry. Through his work, Ian has shown that he is not only a talented CEO but also a passionate advocate for the cycling community.

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David Hemming, Managing Director, FreeFlow Technologies

David’s past experience includes sales, marketing & business leadership working with the likes of Cannondale, Rapha, Team Sky, UYN Sports, Titici Bikes, Alchemist Wheels and more, as well as being a previous Team GB mountain bike racer.

As Managing Director of FreeFlow Technologies he’s building the company on its way to large scaled production of an innovative Scottish designed and assembled mid drive Ebike motor that the company sells to global bicycle brands from a handmade level through to the global blue chips.

His love for cycling in all forms makes him a visionary for the future of electric bikes.

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Host or Publisher Team Art of Possible