Sonder Bikes owner confirms new investment to keep business running

Alpkit, the British outdoor brand that owns Sonder Bikes, has publicly announced it has completed a pre-pack sale to a new investor, after entering administration earlier this week. In a statement, the company said the move will secure the business long-term, allow it to retain all 194 jobs, and keep its 10 stores open.

The new investor is Jeroen van den Berge, a Dutch investor and outdoor enthusiast, who will serve as non-executive chair while Alpkit's existing leadership continues to run the company.

Sonder Bikes owner enters administration

Alpkit, the British outdoor brand and owner of Sonder bikes, has entered administration after “incredible challenges over the last three years.” In a shareholder letter sent on Monday evening, seen by Escape, Alpkit CEO and co-founder David Hanney said that the company is finalising a sale to a new owner

Escape CollectiveSuvi Loponen

Under the restructuring, previous shareholders – including thousands of individuals who backed the brand in 2020 and 2022 funding rounds – will lose the value of their shares.

Alpkit said the fresh capital will back a refocus on product and service, with plans to improve margins by re-sourcing production, adding new products (including from its Trakke acquisition), and tightening costs. while keeping its "technical performance, social justice and environmental responsibility" commitments.

dailynews alpkit