Car Free Day: A glimpse into the city of tomorrow
Today is Car free day. A day when cities around the world showcase what the future of urban mobility could look like. Residents and visitors are invited to leave their cars behind and try alternatives such as bicycles, e-bikes, or public transport. Of course, this doesn’t mean that nobody uses a car at all. Businesses and residents still drive when necessary. Car free day is more of an aspiration: a moment of awareness that shows how our cities change when micromobility and other sustainable modes of transport are given more space. Fewer Cars, More Living Space While Car free day mainly symbolizes change, more and more cities are introducing structural policies to restrict cars and reshape urban mobility. Paris, for example, is investing heavily in car-free zones, transforming hundreds of streets into green, low-traffic areas. Madrid has introduced “Madrid Central,” a strict low-emission zone that keeps polluting vehicles out of the city center. In Ghent, a circulation plan has turned the historic center into a largely car-free zone without making the city inaccessible. These measures result in cleaner air, safer streets, and above all: more room for people, micromobility, and quality of life. The Rise of Micromobility Within this transition in urban mobility, micromobility is playing an ever greater role. Where the car once dominated, bicycles, e-bikes, cargo bikes, and folding bikes are now gaining ground. For distances up to ten kilometers, the bicycle often proves to be faster and more practical than the car, especially in busy city centers. And the numbers speak for themselves. Research by Grand View Horizon and McKinsey shows that the European micromobility market is growing at nearly thirteen percent annually. By 2030, the global market could reach an astonishing 340 billion dollars. What’s more, the use of shared e-bikes and e-scooters in Europe grew by almost forty percent in 2022 compared to the year before. These figures prove that micromobility is not a passing trend but a lasting and powerful force shaping the future of how we move. The Power of the Last Mile An important element in the shift toward smarter urban mobility is the so-called “last mile.” In the past, many people drove their entire journey by car. Now, commuters increasingly combine different modes of transport. You might take the train to the station and then cover the last few kilometers to the office or an appointment effortlessly with a folding bike or shared bike. Even drivers are seeking micromobility solutions for those final stretches. As city centers become harder to access and parking spaces more scarce, many turn to folding bikes to save time and reduce stress. This is especially true for electric car drivers, who often park their vehicles at a charging station and complete the remaining distance quickly and efficiently by folding bike. From Transport to Urban Logistics The impact of micromobility goes far beyond daily commuting. Urban logistics is rapidly transforming as well. Cargo bikes deliver parcels, groceries, and even collect waste. Where delivery vans are often stuck in traffic, bicycles and other light vehicles glide easily through narrow streets. Even independent professionals such as painters and other tradespeople are embracing cargo bikes to transport their tools and materials efficiently. This shift demonstrates how micromobility also provides smart business solutions, perfectly aligned with the broader context of sustainable urban mobility. Together, we make our cities more efficient and more livable. The City of Tomorrow Begins Today Car free day shows that the city of tomorrow is closer than we think. A city where micromobility and smart solutions for urban mobility become the new standard. At PENDLR, you’ll find everything you need to adapt to this change. From high-quality parts and accessories to the knowledge and expertise that help you grow with the rising demand. Join PENDLR today and help build the city of tomorrow. Together, we make the daily commutes more flexible, efficient, and green.
Sep 22, 2025
•Bram van Duinen
•4 min. reading time
70 Years Kruitbosch: Jan van Dalfsen on the Strong Collaboration with Kruitbosch and PENDLR
For the 70th anniversary of Kruitbosch, we visited Jan van Dalfsen from Rijwielhuis van Dalfsen. Jan is a well-known name in the region and has been running his family business with heart and soul for many years. As a child, he already went along with his father to Kruitbosch to pick up parts, so the collaboration literally goes back to his earliest memories. Much has changed since then. At the end of 2023, Kruitbosch’s wholesale branch continued under a new name: PENDLR. The trusted people, service, and products remained, but with a fresh identity and a forward-looking direction. In an open conversation, he talks about his early years in the business, developments in the industry, and the close relationship he has built over the years with Kruitbosch, and now with PENDLR. From school desks to the workshop Jan joined his father’s business at a young age. "I was seventeen, had just finished high school, and immediately started working in the shop. We took over a store in Hasselt, and my brother went there. I stayed in Genemuiden." At first, father and son worked together as a duo, until things got busier and the staff started to grow. The store was still in a building that was later renovated. "In 2022, we completely rebuilt it. Everything was torn down – it literally became one big hole. After that, we created a modern, spacious store, including an upstairs floor with bicycles – clearly visible from the entrance, exactly how I wanted it." A childhood among bicycle parts The collaboration with Kruitbosch goes back to Jan van Dalfsen’s childhood. "I’ve never known it any other way than being a customer at Kruitbosch," he says. "In the past, my father drove to Zwolle himself to collect parts. Sometimes my brother and I were allowed to come along, even before school." There was also the sales representative who visited every two weeks. "An older man, always with a box of sweets in his car. When he came on a Wednesday afternoon, just when we were free from school, we knew: today we’ll get a sweet. You never forget that." From an early age, Jan became familiar with the people, the warehouse, and Kruitbosch’s way of working. "That involvement and recognition made it personal. It laid the foundation for the strong collaboration that still exists today with PENDLR." A true family business The love for the craft runs deep, as does the appreciation for the family business. "My father started in the 1960s with bicycles and sewing machines. He came from a bulb grower’s family but was more drawn to technology. Entrepreneurship runs in our family." Today, Jan’s son Robert also works in the business. "I love that. You are involved in everything. It makes the work varied and engaging." Growing together with Kruitbosch and PENDLR The relationship between Rijwielhuis van Dalfsen and Kruitbosch, now PENDLR, is not only long-standing but also strong in substance. For Jan, the collaboration has always felt natural and self-evident. "PENDLR’s range fits perfectly with our store and our customers. We mainly focus on the everyday cyclist, not racing bikes or mountain bikes, but solid city bikes and electric models. And at Kruitbosch, I always find exactly what I need." But it’s not just about products. "The personal contact really makes the difference for me," Jan explains. "You knew the people on the phone, you knew who was walking around the warehouse, and if something came up, it was solved right away. Those short lines gave confidence. Over the years that has changed somewhat, the organization has become larger, but the good relationship thankfully remained." From sewing machines to e-bikes The industry has changed enormously over the years. "In my early years, mountain bikes emerged, and now electric is dominant. Currently, about 65% of our sales are electric. It happened gradually, but now it’s indispensable. Even young people ride them to school." Still, Jan remains down-to-earth about the growth. "I never had the ambition to grow bigger at all costs. But when my colleague in the area quit, it got busier here. I took the opportunity. Now we work with a team of five, and the building is already almost too small." The strength of family businesses When asked about the secret of long-term entrepreneurship and collaboration, Jan answers without hesitation: "Family businesses have an extra drive. You feel a responsibility towards previous and next generations. You see that at Kruitbosch and PENDLR as well. There are people with true passion for their work. That creates trust, for seventy years already."
Sep 22, 2025
•Rogier Hoeksma
•4 min. reading time
70 years of Kruitbosch: a bond between generations with Widek, Kruitbosch and now PENDLR
Kruitbosch is celebrating its 70th anniversary this year, the perfect moment to reflect on the relationships that have helped us grow. One of those special relationships is with Widek, a true family business from Krimpen aan de IJssel, founded in 1936. What began as a small bicycle and radio shop has grown into the producer of bicycle bells, bungee cords, handlebar grips and child seats. Kruitbosch has been a loyal partner of Widek since its early years. Much has changed since then. At the end of 2023, Kruitbosch’s wholesale division continued under a new name, PENDLR. The trusted people, service and products remain, but with a fresh identity and a future focused direction. We spoke with Mike de Kwant, Commercial Director at Widek and great grandchild of founder Wim de Kwant. From Grandpa Wim to the fourth generation The history of Widek reads like a family story full of perseverance. Founder Wim de Kwant, great grandfather of current director Mike, opened a shop selling radios and bicycles in 1936. He was known for never shying away from a challenge. When he was told at a trade fair that making bicycle bells would be “too difficult” for him, he immediately took on the challenge and the rest is history. And as if history repeats itself, years later Mike’s grandfather, Wim’s son, faced a similar remark, this time about bungee cords. Manufacturers in the market complained about quality and wondered if Widek could do better. That comment was all it took: he dove in, researched everything and within a short time Widek added bungee cords to its range. In the years that followed, the company developed into the producer of bicycle bells, bungee cords, handlebar grips and child seats under the brand name Qibbel. A partnership that adapts In Kruitbosch’s early years, Widek was already working with the Zwolle based wholesaler. Over the years, the relationship evolved into a direct partnership. “Two family businesses that complement each other. We bring production capacity, Kruitbosch brings market knowledge and reach,” says Mike. This partnership received a new boost with the transition from Kruitbosch to PENDLR. What once began as a small wholesaler in Zwolle has grown into more than just a wholesaler: it is the partner in micromobility. “The name has changed and the course has been renewed, but the cooperation still feels just as familiar,” Mike explains. “The same personal approach and shared drive for quality are still the foundation.” From K3 flags to lightweight seats In the 1990s, the collaboration between Widek and Kruitbosch was boosted by successful children’s accessories licensed from brands such as Disney, Nickelodeon and Studio 100. This resulted in colourful bicycle bells, flags and handlebar grips featuring characters like K3, Bumba, SpongeBob and Winnie the Pooh. Widek excelled in production and creativity, while Kruitbosch, and now PENDLR, brought market knowledge and distribution power, resulting in millions of products sold, loved by both children and parents. In 2012, Widek launched the brand Qibbel, offering modular, colourful child seats that were popular with parents but challenging for retailers in terms of stock management. “We learned a lot from that,” says Mike. “With Qibbel Air, we solved those issues – lightweight, ready out of the box and easy to mount. A hit.” The Qibbel Junior, designed for children aged six and up, became the best selling model. Today, the seat is also gaining ground outside the Benelux, thanks in part to the rise of cargo and longtail bikes. Building the future together At Widek, sustainability is deeply embedded in the way they produce. What makes them unique is that the entire production process still takes place in house and on Dutch soil. From design and injection moulding to assembly and quality control, everything happens under one roof in Krimpen aan de IJssel. This approach allows Widek to respond quickly while maintaining maximum control over quality, innovation and environmental impact. The company uses a zero waste injection moulding process, where colour changes and defective products are shredded and reused in production. More than 1,200 solar panels now cover the roof, supplying over half of the company’s annual electricity needs. “Because we do everything ourselves, we can produce with great awareness. That is not only good for the environment, but also makes business sense,” Mike explains. A collaboration rooted in trust What began in the 1950s has grown into a partnership where generations have connected through shared values: craftsmanship, reliability, innovation and entrepreneurship. That Widek produces everything in house aligns perfectly with PENDLR’s ambition to work with partners who are close by, both literally and figuratively. It ensures short lines of communication, quick decision making and a high level of involvement. Above all, it shows that with strong cooperation and a clear vision, you can continue building the future together. From Kruitbosch to PENDLR, from then to tomorrow. Are you ready to write the next chapter Are you ready to write the next chapters together? Join PENDLR and discover how, with strong brands like Widek, we can help your store grow. With our products, service and dedication, we make sure you can focus on what you do best: making your customers happy. Become a customer and let us create a great story together.
Aug 14, 2025
•Bram van Duinen
•5 min. reading time
Back to school with the right bike accessories
The new school year is approaching, and for many students, this means cycling to school every day. As a dealer, you want to provide your customers with the best products for these commutes. PENDLR helps you with a wide range of cycling accessories that make daily transportation for students more flexible, efficient, and greener. AXA: Carefree School Commute Safety is a top priority, especially for students who cycle to school every day. AXA offers robust chain locks that effectively protect your customers' bikes from theft. Sander Toenhake, category manager at PENDLR and responsible for the bike lock product category, says the following: "With AXA, our dealers can offer their customers reliable and durable chain locks, allowing them to park their bikes worry-free at school," says Sander Toenhake, category manager at PENDLR and responsible for the lock product category. "Bikes are a daily means of transportation for students, and we understand how important it is for them to leave their bikes safely behind. AXA provides not only top-quality theft protection but also user-friendly and sustainable solutions that make the cycling student’s life a lot easier. With these locks, students can rest assured that their bike is well protected, contributing to a worry-free cycling experience both on the road and at school." Urban Proof: Combining Style and Functionality Urban Proof offers a wide range of practical and stylish cycling accessories that make the daily ride to school easier. Think of sturdy bike baskets and handy bike bags that ensure students can transport their belongings safely and dryly. "Urban Proof provides our dealers with the opportunity to offer students practical cycling accessories that make their daily ride to school much easier," explains Frank Bronkhorst, category manager at PENDLR and responsible for bike baskets and bags. "With the sturdy baskets and handy bags, students can safely and dryly carry their belongings, and with the fashionable bags, they immediately have a trendy school bag. It's the perfect combination of style and functionality in these cycling accessories that ensure a carefree ride to school." Insight Almost 80% of high school students cycle to school every day, according to figures from DUO. These statistics highlight the popularity of cycling among students. Since high schools are often located a few kilometers away, and students are often loaded with books, laptops, and gym clothes, there is high demand for practical cycling accessories that make biking more comfortable and easier for this target group. Consider a handy front and rear rack or a stylish bag where they can carry everything, both on the way and at school. Steco: Practical and Safe on the Go Steco offers practical accessories such as rain covers for backpacks, battery locks, and front racks, which are perfect for students who bike every day. These products not only contribute to a more comfortable ride but also increase safety, regardless of the weather or the amount of gear. Frank, who is also responsible for Steco, explains: "Steco offers a wide range of practical accessories that make the daily ride to school much more flexible, efficient, and greener. Think of the front or rear rack, allowing students to carry their belongings practically and comfortably. Products like the battery lock and the rain cover for the backpack ensure that the ride to school is not only comfortable but also that students can spend the day at school worry-free." Vici: The 3-in-1 Growth Bike for Students The Vici 3-in-1 growth bike is ideal for young children taking their first steps in preschool. This bike grows with the child, ensuring they always have the right size. The Vici offers a safe and sustainable way to learn cycling through different stages. It is an ideal option for parents investing in a durable bike that will support their child's cycling adventures for years to come. Ready for the School Year? Are you ready to provide your customers with the best cycling accessories? Become a PENDLR customer and add these top brands to your product range. Together, we’ll make the new school year a success!
Aug 5, 2025
•Bram van Duinen
•4 min. reading time
70 years of Kruitbosch: from traditional wholesaler to the partner in micromobility
Today, we celebrate a significant milestone: Kruitbosch is 70 years old! Since 1955, we have been active in the bicycle industry. What started as a small family business in Zwolle has grown into a trusted name in the sector. We are proud of what we have achieved and continue to look to the future with the same passion and values. How it all began In the early years, Grandpa Kruitbosch would lower bikes with ropes from above in his local wholesaler's shop. Orders were sent out with a cargo bike, and new orders were written on slips of paper for the delivery person. As demand grew, the business grew with it. In 1973, Kruitbosch outgrew its space and moved from the city center to just outside of Zwolle. A former steel construction company at Vondelkade 70 was transformed into a warehouse. With a team of six, they worked daily to fulfill bicycle parts orders. Everything was still done by hand: orders came in handwritten, bicycle parts were sorted alphabetically on shelves, and trucks were unloaded manually. “We’d give the tires a good push from the truck,” recalls Gerard Lindeboom, who is retiring this year after 49 years of service. “That’s how they would roll into the warehouse on their own.” The transition from Kruitbosch to PENDLR A lot has changed since then. Since the end of 2023, Kruitbosch’s wholesale business has been operating under a new name: PENDLR. The trusted people, service, and products have remained, but with a fresh identity and forward-looking direction that not only maintains the focus on bicycles and bicycle parts, but also embraces a clear vision for the rise of micromobility. In the past, bike shops would pick up their parts during lunch hours, but today much of the process is automated. However, the core of our work has remained the same: service, reliability, and expertise. With PENDLR, this approach continues, but with a clear future vision: we want to be more than just a traditional wholesaler in bike parts and accessories; we want to be the partner in micromobility. Reshaping daily commutes Micromobility is not a temporary trend, but a necessary development. The way people move is changing rapidly, and we don’t just want to follow this change, we want to lead it. By offering the right parts and accessories that make daily commuting more flexible, efficient, and greener, we contribute to the livability of cities. We focus on light, healthy, and sustainable modes of transportation, such as cargo bikes, longtails, folding bikes, city bikes, and especially the related parts and accessories. Cities are under pressure due to challenges like limited space, accessibility, and air quality. This calls for new solutions, and we see that municipalities are increasingly taking measures to promote micromobility, such as emissions-free zones and car-free neighborhoods. This presents huge opportunities for our industry. Bicycles and other forms of micromobility are often faster, more sustainable, and more practical than cars or delivery vans. Our mission is clear: reshaping daily commutes. We aim to seize the many opportunities that micromobility presents, together with our dealers, and contribute to a more sustainable and efficient future of transportation. The partner in micromobility We offer a wide range of over 23,000 products from more than 160 brands, with special attention to sustainable products. At the same time, we continue to invest heavily in micromobility. We closely monitor market developments and continuously adjust our offering to meet today’s needs. In doing so, we remain committed to our trusted service: fast and reliable delivery, as well as expert support for our partners. We are more than a wholesaler; we are the partner in micromobility. Become a customer of PENDLR The demand for sustainable, efficient transportation is growing rapidly, and we want to seize those opportunities together with you. Whether it’s the right parts, innovative accessories, or tapping into the latest mobility trends, we have everything you need to stay ahead. Together, we’ll make daily commutes more flexible, efficient, and greener. Become a customer of PENDLR today!
Aug 1, 2025
•Bram van Duinen
•4 min. reading time
We make the daily commutes in and around the city more flexible, efficient and green. We are your partner in micromobility.
