Press Release
Stradalli In Indiana
Stradalli Bicycles Under New Ownership with Indiana Focus
Vero Beach, FL – October 1st, 2024 – Stradalli, the well know brand of high-performance, carbon fiber bicycles, has been acquired by Stradalli-Hudson Cycle-an Indiana company owned by Robert Hudson, and his son, Cole. This acquisition marks a new chapter for Stradalli, with continued direct to consumer online marketing and a special focus on serving the Indiana cycling community. Stradalli will re-locate from Florida to Indiana with goal of the new company basing operations in Bloomington. SHC will seek strategic brick and mortar partnerships, as well as brand ambassadors and sponsored athletes assisting direct to consumer online marketing efforts”. Hudson said.
Hudson, an alumnus of Indiana University, former Little 5 rider and supporter, originally opened a brick and mortar Bicycle shop 20 years ago, Now, alongside his son Cole, who brings a fresh perspective and entrepreneurial drive, they are poised to re-energize the Stradalli brand. “When we owned a brick and mortar, our suppliers, all traditional distributors through IBDs, were already transitioning to online or hybrid sales models, which made things tough for B&M Shops. This approach has only increased with most manufacturers, and almost all brands are engaging in some form of online direct to consumer channels, but in doing so may alienate their previous IBD partners. Stradalli aims to bridge this gap with a hybrid approach to marketing.
This acquisition represents a unique blend of experience, combining Rob’s deep understanding of the cycling industry with Cole's youth and enthusiasm. Brian Hardman of M&A firm Edison Business Advisors orchestrated the acquisition and will continue on the board of advisors. Hardman, is also an IU Alum and cycling enthusiast with unique Florida, Bloomington and Indiana connections.
"This is a dream come true for us," says Robert Hudson, Co-founder of Stradalli-Hudson. "We're not just acquiring a company; we're investing in the future of cycling and building the vibrant cycling culture in Indiana."
Thomas Steinbacher, the German entrepreneur who built Stradalli into a leading international brand, will remain on the company's Advisory Board. Stradalli bicycles have a winning legacy, with victories in World Championships, Olympic Games, U.S. Nationals, international and domestic races.
"We're thrilled to see Stradalli enter this exciting new phase," said Steinbacher. "The Hudson family's passion for cycling and commitment to Indiana makes them the ideal stewards for the brand."
The acquisition brings significant opportunities, including the operation of a successful e-commerce platform. This strategic move will create jobs and boost the local economy.
Stradalli-Hudson plans to refine its product line, but keep focus on Carbon as primary material while offering a highest quality option at a discounted price. “Tom has done an incredible job both in designing a race proven, highest quality carbon bike, while marketing through top level team sponsorships with direct to consumer pricing. They are absolutely beautiful bikes. We would like to continue this mission, and make carbon frames that fit and work for everyone from the novice, professional, sport, and for the rider who wants to ‘get back in’ to the sport but maybe hasn’t ridden for years.”
This move will allow Stradalli-Hudson to tap into the state's rich athletic talent pool and actively support the local cycling community through events and initiatives. "We are excited to be a part of the Indiana cycling community and look forward to contributing to its growth and success," says Cole Hudson, Co-founder of Stradalli-Hudson.