REI to be Exclusive U.S. Retailer for GHOST Brand Bicycles

SEATTLE, Sept. 23, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- REI, a national outdoor gear and apparel retailer, and GHOST, manufacturer of high-performance German mountain bikes, are partnering to bring GHOST brand bicycles to the United States. GHOST's 2015 line will be available exclusively through REI and REI.com starting in January 2015.

"Partnering with GHOST brand bicycles allows us to offer a premium, high-performance, award winning bicycle brand with full distribution across the United States," says Mike Cannon, REI merchandising manager for cycle. "We are impressed with the level of detail, smart design and engineering GHOST brand bicycles bring to the industry. The line will also help round-out our bike assortment so REI can better support all levels of cycling."

Based in Germany, GHOST is a leader in high-end bicycle manufacturing and innovation with more than 20 years of the highest attention to detail and quality engineering. The world-class, award-winning line is distributed in more than 40 countries in Europe as well as Canada and now the United States.

REI has introduced innovative, quality outdoor brands and categories to outdoor enthusiasts for over 75 years. The company carries a fleet of road, urban, touring and mountain bicycles, including its Private Brand bicycle line, Novara, and a variety of other bicycle brands at its stores across the country and on REI.com.

In the exclusive agreement, REI will sell high-end models through its retail stores, including the KATO Full Suspension 7 E:I featuring Electronic Intelligence suspension and award-winning RIOT LC featuring GHOST's Riot Link suspension design. Starting in February, consumers will also have access to a variety of other models in the GHOST line directly via REI.com that can be shipped anywhere in the United States.

"REI is the perfect retail partner to introduce a new premium European brand like GHOST stateside," said Chris Speyer, CEO of Accell North America/GHOST. "As a specialty retailer that employs a dedicated bike staff including highly trained mechanics, REI has the ability to accurately convey the quality and technology of the brand and match consumers with a bike that best fits their ability and riding style."

About REI

REI is a $2 billion national multichannel retail co-op headquartered outside of Seattle. With more than five million active members, REI serves the needs of outdoor adventurers through innovative, quality products; inspiring classes and trips; and integrated customer service that allows shoppers to buy great gear and clothing in any way they want. REI has 135 stores in 33 states and REI.com and REI.com/outlet. Anyone may shop with REI, while members pay a one-time $20 fee to receive a share in the company's profits through an annual member refund based on patronage. Membership in the co-op also includes special promotions and discounts on REI Adventures trips and REI Outdoor School classes.

About GHOST

Founded in 1993 in the Bavaria region of Germany, GHOST creates award winning bicycles using innovative technologies paired with unique design details. GHOST is part of Accell North America who is committed to leading in cycling innovation in product, brand and specialty business practices to grow Independent Bicycle Retail in North America. Accell North America is the North American business entity of Accell Group, NV, Europe's leading bicycle company. Accell North America, located in Kent, Wash., is completely focused on growing the specialty bike business by providing excellence in customer service, product innovation, profitability and brand marketing on the regional and national level.

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SOURCE REI