Alpine Bikes Aberdeen store closes after 35 years

A popular Aberdeen city centre bike store has shut down suddenly after 35 years.

Alpine Bikes on Holburn Street closed its doors for the last time on Friday.

Founded by owner David McKay, the business was taken over by retailer Tiso 18 years ago.

In a statement, it was revealed the store was no longer “commercially viable” despite efforts to keep afloat.

The owners blame a number of factors including the post-pandemic market, saying it remains “very challenging”.

Meanwhile, the Alpine Bikes stores in Inverness, Aviemore, Perth, Edinburgh and Glasgow, as well as the Tweed Valley Bike Hire in Glentress, will remain open.

The Tiso store on John Street is not closing.

Alpine Bikes Aberdeen closes down

A statement on Alpine Bike’s website reads: “We have reluctantly taken the difficult decision to close the Alpine Bikes store on Holburn Street in Aberdeen.

“This is not a decision taken lightly and follows extensive efforts to adapt the local offering and operating structure following an ongoing programme of investment.

The store operated on Holburn Street for 35 years. Image: Alpine Bikes

“Unfortunately, various factors have combined to such an extent that the store is no longer commercially viable.

“The post COVID bike market remains very challenging, particularly for stand alone bike stores.

“We would like to take this opportunity to thank all our customers for their support and loyalty over the years and we hope to see you in one of our other Alpine Bikes stores soon.

“Please note that Tiso located at John Street, Aberdeen is unaffected by the decision.”

On its Facebook page, the business had still been posting information about bike ranges and talking about receiving a “big delivery” just last week.

Alpine Bikes closure is a ‘huge bow to the cycling community’

Scottish Conservative North East MSP Liam Kerr, who is an avid cyclist and a customer at Alpine Bikes, said: “The closure is a huge blow to the cycling community, like myself, who relied on the shop for new equipment, repairs and advice.

“This announcement highlights that Aberdeen’s high street crisis extends further than just Union Street.

“Ludicrous measures, such as the LEZ on Holburn Street where Alpine Bikes is based, are starving city centre traders of the footfall needed to survive.

“Alpine Bikes has been a staple of North East cycling for more than three decades and its closure will cause immense sadness.

“My thoughts go to the fantastic staff during this difficult time who were always keen to help whenever I was in the store.”