B2B Festival 2026: These are the trends and developments we spotted on the exhibition floor.
Last week, on February 8 and 9, we attended the B2B Festival. At our stand, we guided visitors through various scenarios and showcased how weâre shaping the mobility of tomorrow together. This sparked valuable conversations, new insights, and fresh ideas. And it wasnât just at our standâacross the entire exhibition floor, our Category Management colleagues actively engaged with suppliers and partners to discover the latest innovations. Weâre bringing that knowledge and those opportunities back so we can share them with you. Our account managers also looked back: what caught their attention at our stand? Positive atmosphere at the exhibition and across the market What stood out immediately? The busy, energetic exhibition floor. Everywhere, conversations were happening about opportunities, new products, and collaboration. The overall market sentiment was optimistic. Despite all the changes in the industry, confidence remains strong. Suppliers and dealers are actively moving, looking for ways to strengthen their offerings. This confirms what weâre seeing: micromobility continues to evolve, and together we can accelerate that growth. Different forms of micromobility Elwin BaijlĂŠ, Category Developer at PENDLR, responsible for spotting innovative brands and solutions, saw firsthand how micromobility is maturing. âWhat struck me most is how diverse the range of longtails has become,â Elwin explains. âThese bikes are genuinely taking over the role of a second car. This is no longer a hype, but a structural development.â Folding bikes also stood out. âWithin the first- and last-mile segment, this remains a very interesting category: compact, flexible, and perfectly combinable with a car or public transport.â He also noticed that itâs increasingly not just about the vehicle itself. âItâs about the complete picture. Accessories and supplementary solutions make the difference and give dealers opportunities to truly stand out.â For example, Steco presented a new product that allows an extra child seat to be easily attached to a cargo bike. Beta, a specialist in workshop solutions, also reported that their solutions for cargo bikes and longtails are extremely popular. This highlights how the entire supply chain is moving along with the growth of this category. Growing demand for helmets and lightweight locks Safety was a clear theme at the exhibition. Sander Toenhake, Category Manager at PENDLR, responsible for locks among other things, noticed a strong focus on helmets and innovative security solutions. âYou can see that safety is increasingly becoming a natural part of the buying process,â Sander says. âQibbel introduced a new childrenâs helmet, and many other brands showcased their latest helmets as well. This shows that this category is really evolving.â Lightweight locks were also strongly represented. âBrands are clearly looking for the right balance between high security and ease of use,â Sander explains. He points to the attention around the ABUS Yarnit campaign, but notes that these products were visible throughout the exhibition. âSecurity is becoming smarter and more technologically advanced. That fits perfectly with the growth of e-bikes and other mobility solutions,â Sander adds. Simson rebranding It was clear at the B2B Festival that Simson is taking a new direction. âOur stand was busy nonstop,â says Sander, who is also responsible for Simson at PENDLR. âYou can feel that the market is curious about this move.â Since 1881, Simson has been known for its iconic tire patch kits. However, it turns out that the brand is mainly familiar to older generations. With a refreshed brand identity and a sharpened strategy, Simson is now making the transition from âpartsâ to âproducts.â âThe market is changing,â says Sander. âConsumers are looking for convenience and reliability. With this new direction, Simson positions itself clearly as a partner in complete, sustainable bicycle mobility.â With a focus on a strong supply chain, distinctive products, and close collaboration with dealers and leasing partners, this rebranding is more than just a visual changeâitâs a strategic move toward the future. Bicycle Innovation Awards winners During the festival, the Bicycle Innovation Awards were also presented. The AXA Atlas took home a prize. âThis product really shows how security and ease of use come together,â says Sander. âAnd thatâs exactly what the market is looking for.â In addition, the Lovens Explorer 2 was awarded Cargo Bike of the Year. This e-cargo bike stands out with a one-piece cast frame and luxury features such as heated seats for children. Comfort and functionality clearly come together here. The cargo bike is increasingly developing into a full-fledged alternative to the car, which was clearly visible on the exhibition floor. What stood out at our own stand? At our stand, Roeland Kassies, Account Manager at PENDLR, spent the entire weekend talking with dealers and partners. One thing stood out to him immediately: the strong interest in UTOâs folding bikes. âThey really drew a lot of attention,â Roeland explains. âYou can see that dealers are actively looking for compact and flexible solutions for urban mobility.â The grow-with-me bike and Viciâs new 16-inch model also stood out. âChildrenâs bikes were popular across the board at the exhibition,â Roeland adds. âThis was clearly reflected in the interest for Alpina.â There was also significant attention for innovative accessories from brands such as Kinekt, Ergon, and Optiline. âDealers are increasingly looking for products that allow them to tell a complete story in-store. Itâs not just about one product, but the total concept.â Want to stay up to date with all the trends and developments? What we saw at the B2B Festival is clear: micromobility is maturing, safety is becoming an increasingly important part of the buying process, and accessories are more often making the difference. These arenât isolated trendsâthey are developments that directly impact your assortment, your sales conversations, and your positioning in the market. Thatâs exactly why weâre sharing these insights. So you know where the opportunities lie, from longtails and folding bikes to helmets, lightweight locks, and smart accessories. As a PENDLR customer, youâre not on your own. We keep you informed about whatâs happening, translate market developments into concrete opportunities, and help you act on them today. Do you want to continue receiving these insights and be able to translate them directly into a strong, future-oriented offering? Contact us and become a PENDLR customer today!
Feb 16, 2026
â˘Bram van Duinen
â˘6 min. reading time
Velofollies 2026: three days of micromobility, inspiration, and great conversations
Three days of micromobility, inspiration, and great conversations On January 16, 17, and 18, PENDLR attended Velofollies. And what a weekend it was. For three days, everything revolved around micromobility and the mobility of tomorrow. Normally, Andy Machiels, Jenno Van Heck, and Pascal Vandamme travel to visit dealers and partners across Flanders, but this time it was the other way around: Velofollies brought everyone together. Pascal immediately noticed how special that is. âVelofollies feels like the moment when the sector comes together. You can see what everyone is working on and feel the energy on the exhibition floor.â Jenno adds that itâs precisely this mix that makes it so valuable: âHere, youâre not only speaking with dealers, but also directly with consumers. That provides an incredible amount of insight.â Tomorrowâs mobility in a relatable format During the exhibition, PENDLR once again showcased the Mobility of Tomorrow campaign, translated into a stand concept with relatable scenarios. Not just individual products, but everyday situations that everyone can recognize: On the Move (commuting), Out Together (family trips), and City in Motion (cargo bikes and bakfietsen). According to Jenno, thatâs precisely the strength of the concept. âVisitors see themselves in these scenarios. Itâs not about a bike on a pedestal, but about how you get around every day.â Pascal adds that this naturally sparks conversation: âWe invite people to think about solutions. This way, we show that micromobility works today, not just in the future.â In this way, PENDLR makes the mobility of tomorrow tangible and accessible, together with its visitors. Folding bikes in the spotlight, for both dealers and consumers A standout feature at the stand was the strong focus on folding bikes. Since the beginning of this year, PENDLR has also been authorized to distribute UTO in Flanders, a milestone that was proudly highlighted. Pascal immediately noticed the enthusiasm. âDealers have been positive about UTO for a while, but it was really great to hear directly from consumers what they think.â Jenno noticed something else in particular: âYou can tell that many people are already specifically looking for a folding bike. That knowledge is already there. And together with AurĂŠlien from UTO, we were able to deepen that expertise even further, both with consumers and dealers.â The folding bike proved to be a real crowd-puller. Focus on family trips and outings In addition to commuting, there was a notable focus on family trips and outings. Throughout the exhibition, cargo bikes, longtails, and smart accessories were on displayâa clear signal that micromobility continues to grow. Jenno sees this as part of a broader trend. âItâs no longer just about commuting. Families are really discovering micromobility as a fully-fledged alternative.â This was also evident at the PENDLR stand, where Alpinaâs childrenâs bikes attracted a lot of attention. Pascal particularly noticed the popularity of Vici. âBoth dealers and consumers were very interested in the grow-with-me bike, and the new 16-inch model also received plenty of attention.â Stella beers on the cargo bike Cargo bikes, longtails, and bakfietsen were impossible to miss at Velofollies. According to Pascal, this is not a temporary trend. âThese forms of micromobility are steadily gaining popularity. Thatâs why we deliberately include them in our scenarios.â A great example was the custom Omnium cargo bike by Green Leaf Projects at the stand, fully equipped with complementary brands like Kinekt, Ergon, and Fahrer. Jenno laughs when he recalls it: âAnd yes, that crate of Stella beers definitely drew extra attention. Sometimes itâs nice to just have a little fun.â Looking ahead to the B2B Festival The focus is already looking ahead. On February 8 and 9, PENDLR will present almost the same concept at the B2B Festival. Jenno sees this as a natural next step. âThere, too, we guide visitors through relatable scenarios with solutions that can be applied immediately.â Pascal emphasizes that strong brands play an important role in this. âBrands like Alpina, Ergon, Vici, Spinder, UTO, and Brooks are prominently featured again. This way, we show just how rich and complete the micromobility story is.â In this way, PENDLR works together with dealers, partners, and brands toward one shared goal: making everyday mobility more flexible, efficient, and sustainable.
Jan 26, 2026
â˘Bram van Duinen
â˘4 min. reading time
Bergsma Folding Bicycles and PENDLR: partners in micromobility
In Zwolle, Pieter and Helena gradually built up a unique bicycle company. No racing bikes and no e-bikes in all shapes and sizes, but one clear choice: folding bikes. It turned out to be a golden opportunity and, at the same time, a glimpse into the future of micro-mobility. They work closely with PENDLR, a partner that, like them, is committed to compact and sustainable mobility solutions. Through PENDLR, they purchase brands such as Bohlt, UGO, Dahon and UTO and supplement their range with parts and accessories to provide their customers with a complete service. From living room to shop floor It started out as a bit of fun, refurbishing used folding bikes in their flat and reselling them for âa few quid moreâ. âWe loved figuring out how these bikes worked and then sending them back out into the world in better shape,â says Helena. The hobby grew to fill their living room. Customers literally came to their home to look, and registration with the Chamber of Commerce followed. During the coronavirus pandemic, the duo moved from a temporary garage to a cosy building in Assendorp. Soon, that too became too small. They are now in their current building with more space, but even here they have less and less room, Helena admits with a laugh. Why only folding bicycles? âYou buy a folding bicycle as a solution to a mobility issue,â says Pieter. Customers are often goal-oriented. âPeople come here because they want to take their camper van on the road, take a boat out on the water or find a smart way to cover the last stretch from the station to work, for example.â The perception that folding bikes are difficult to pedal disappears as soon as someone takes a test ride. âMany people are surprised at how comfortable and stable they are to ride. After a few minutes, they often say: I would feel confident cycling to work on this,â adds Helena. New target groups are also discovering the advantages. âElectric car drivers are coming to us more and more often. Because charging stations are not always close to their destination, they use the folding bicycle from the car park as a convenient means of transport,â says Pieter. âWe are also seeing increasing demand for folding bicycles in urban areas. The folding bicycle is increasingly seen there as the answer to flexible and sustainable transport.â City on the move The urban environment is changing rapidly. âYou see cities becoming more compact and there being less and less space for cars,â says Helena. âPeople want to remain mobile, but in a way that suits the hustle and bustle of the city.â The folding bicycle fits in perfectly with this. It can be taken on the train or tram, fits in the lift or under a desk, and makes the last part of the journey easy. âFor many commuters, it's a relief that they no longer have to depend on a bus or parking space. They unfold their bicycle and they're there,â explains Pieter. As a result, the folding bicycle is evolving from a recreational product into a fully-fledged means of transport. âWe really see it as a permanent solution,â says Pieter. âThe demand for compact and smart mobility is only increasing, and the folding bike fits right in.â Service above all else Bergsma Folding Bicycles advertises modestly via Marktplaats, a camper club magazine and local channels, but relies primarily on craftsmanship and word-of-mouth advertising. The promise is clear: personal advice, fast service and honest repairs. On fixed days, there is room for maintenance. Customers schedule an appointment, have a cup of coffee and pop into town. Often, the bicycle is ready within a few hours. This results in loyal fans who even come back from Limburg. The customer base is broad and demonstrates the versatility of the folding bicycle. Motorhome owners, water sports enthusiasts, commuters, lorry and coach drivers, as well as the fire brigade, police and local authorities rely on Bergsma Vouwfietsen. Pieter developed practical carrier solutions and crates for the fire brigade. Everything to help their customers get on their way. A proprietary brand with a recognisable image In addition to the shop, Pieter and Helena developed their own line under the same name as the shop. Frames that fit, parts that can take a beating, and specifications that were shaped by talking to their customers. The result is a series of models that are often considered the best. The models were given playful personal names, named after their children, and a clear signature. There is a blue version with three gears and a black one with seven gears. Recently, a foldable balance bike was added to the range. âWe tailor each production run to what customers really want, from chain guards and anti-puncture tyres to the seating position,â says Helena. Smart components and circular solutions What cannot be purchased, they make themselves. Think of extra-long and stiffer seat posts for classic diameters and special handlebars that allow for a straighter posture. When a frame can no longer be salvaged, parts are carefully reused. This results in boxes of rare parts from specific brands. Exactly what a customer with an older folding bicycle needs. The result is sustainable and service-oriented. Collaboration with Kruitbosch and PENDLR The collaboration with Kruitbosch played an important role for Bergsma Folding Bicycles from the very beginning. âKruitbosch was the first wholesaler we registered with,â says Helena. âThat gave us access to new products and helped us make the transition from hobby to a real business.â That initial collaboration instilled confidence and provided the opportunity to establish the shop professionally. Pieter and Helena now work with PENDLR, the new name under which Kruitbosch is continuing to develop. For them, this fits in seamlessly with their own vision. âPENDLR is strongly committed to micro-mobility, and folding bikes are naturally part of that,â says Pieter. âIt's great to see a large player choosing the same direction as us, namely offering solutions that suit how people want to get around in and around the city.â PENDLR stocks various folding bicycle brands, including Bohlt, UGO, Dahon and UTO. They also source the necessary parts and accessories, so they can always offer their customers a complete and reliable range. Growing while maintaining proximity The ambition is great. Plans include larger premises, further expansion of their own line and collaboration with other shops. One condition remains unchanged: assembly and service must always meet the standards that Pieter and Helena themselves strive for. âWe want to grow, but not through mass production. Personal contact and careful finishing are part of this product.â
Jan 12, 2026
â˘Bram van Duinen
â˘6 min. reading time
UTO and PENDLR join forces to strengthen micromobility in Flanders
From 1 January 2026, UTO will be taking a new and powerful step forward in Flanders. The brand, which recently changed its name from Eovolt to UTO, has opted for an exclusive partnership with PENDLR to strengthen distribution in the region. Together, we are building a future in which micro-mobility becomes even more visible, accessible and impactful. Direct access to the full UTO range This partnership gives Flemish dealers direct access to the full UTO range. From compact and foldable e-bikes to the latest innovations for smooth and healthy travel in and around the city. PENDLR supports dealers with logistics, commercial advice and a strong after-sales service. Everything to prepare them for tomorrow's opportunities. âWe are excited to enter a new phase of growth in Flanders together with PENDLR,â says Luca Chevalier, founder of UTO. âTheir strong local presence, broad product knowledge and passion for micromobility make them the ideal partner to realise our ambitions.â PENDLR expands international role PENDLR already distributes UTO in the Netherlands and is now expanding these activities to Flanders. This represents another major step towards creating an international network that strengthens and accelerates the micromobility movement. âWe are proud to be able to further expand our collaboration with UTO to Flanders,â says Erik Westerlaken, UTO Brand Ambassador at PENDLR. âAfter a successful collaboration in the Netherlands, this is a logical next step in making UTO more widely known. Together, we will ensure that even more people can experience the power and freedom of micro-mobility.â Bring UTO to your shop At PENDLR, dealers can find the entire UTO range clearly organised in one place. We not only ensure a smooth purchasing process, but also provide support, advice and service when you need it. In this way, we help you seize opportunities and serve your customers optimally. Together, we will put UTO even more firmly on the map in Flanders and continue to build a city that keeps moving.
Dec 18, 2025
â˘Rogier Hoeksma
â˘2 min. reading time
PENDLR and Beta join forces: building the workplace of tomorrow together
Sometimes the right partners cross paths at exactly the right moment. Thatâs exactly what happened with PENDLR and Beta. What started as a coincidental encounter grew into a collaboration built on trust, expertise and a shared ambition: helping bicycle dealers move forward and shaping the workplace of the future. âIt actually began very coincidentally,â says Brian van Boeckholtz from Beta with a smile. âOne of our account managers ran into a former colleague at the B2B Festival, who now works at PENDLR. They started talking, and from there the idea to continue the conversation emerged. Those spontaneous moments often spark the most valuable partnerships.â From first conversation to shared vision What began as an exploratory chat quickly evolved into a shared vision for growth and quality. Remco Lagendijk, Category Developer at PENDLR: âIt started very practically just seeing whether we could mean something to each other. But soon we realised that we share the same ambition: to support dealers better with solutions that truly make a difference in their day-to-day work.â That connection became concrete almost immediately. Brian adds: âFor us, PENDLR instantly felt like a natural partner. They have a vast network and deep expertise in the bicycle industry, and are known as a preferred supplier. We bring specialist knowledge and a complete range for the workplace from tools and compressors to safety shoes. Together, we can help dealers elevate their workplace to the next level.â Specialist expertise in practice Beta is not your average supplier. The company focuses entirely on professionals, mechanics and workplaces, offering everything needed for a safe, efficient and future-proof working environment. More and more retailers recognise that a well-designed workplace directly boosts profitability: with a logical layout and the right tools, you can accomplish more work in less time. And with the rise of high-end e-bikes, cargo bikes and longtails, the demand for specialist tools and knowledge is growing rapidly. With a dedicated team of account managers and sales promoters on the road every day, dealers can see and test products and receive direct advice on the best solutions. Remco: âFor our retailers, this means they donât just receive products â they gain a partner who thinks along with them. From advice on workplace layout to full implementation, together we make sure the workplace is ready for the future.â Ready for tomorrow From 15 December onwards, Betaâs solutions will officially be available through PENDLR. It marks a new step in our shared mission to help bicycle dealers grow with smart, safe and future-ready workplaces. Remco concludes: âWe look forward to introducing our dealers to Betaâs range. This is exactly the kind of collaboration that makes everyone stronger: united, ready for tomorrow.â Interested in Beta as well? With Beta on board, weâre taking the next step toward a future-proof workplace that truly works for you. Interested in Beta? Become a PENDLR customer!
Dec 8, 2025
â˘Bram van Duinen
â˘3 min. reading time
We make the daily commutes in and around the city more flexible, efficient and green. We are your partner in micromobility.
