ONE BRAND
Poing near Munich, February 25th, 2025. The bicycle industry is changing: e-bikes are conquering the roads and the bicycle is becoming a symbol of a conscious, sustainable lifestyle. Alexander Schall, who has been Key Account Manager for two-wheelers at TIP TOP Automotive GmbH for a year now, talks in an interview about the positive market dynamics, the rediscovery of classic products and his plans to strengthen and expand REMA TIP TOP's role in the two-wheeler sector with innovative repair and workshop equipment.
The bicycle market has changed rapidly in recent years. The triumphant advance of e-bikes has prompted many people to make the switch again or for the first time. The popularity of high-tech, well-designed bikes is growing rapidly. Mr. Schall, how do you experience the change in everyday mobility?
Alexander Schall: Today, the bicycle is more than just a means of transportation - it is an expression of a conscious, sustainable lifestyle. And the bicycle market reflects people's growing aspirations. The willingness of consumers to invest in high-quality bicycles has increased enormously. The rapid technological progress in electric drives makes it possible to experience the benefits of cycling - in everyday life, for sports or even for transportation.
As a result, the bicycle industry is experiencing a revival, and it is exciting to see how traditional concepts are being combined with modern technology. This diversity shows how innovative and adaptable the industry is. In my role at TIP TOP Automotive GmbH, I look forward to witnessing this change and supporting it with our products.
You have been responsible for the two-wheeler market at TIP TOP Automotive GmbH for almost a year now. How do you see your way from the automotive industry to the bicycle industry?
Alexander Schall: The transition has been extremely exciting for me and has opened up new perspectives both professionally and personally. Of course, the automotive and two-wheeler industries are different, but customers' demands for good performance and the importance of high-quality products are basically the same. The challenge was to understand and adapt to the specific needs and trends in the two-wheeler sector. The market environment is driven by innovation, which motivates me to keep my finger on the pulse. I am now looking forward to being part of this dynamic industry and putting my knowledge and experience at the service of our customers.
What innovations in customer focus and market penetration can we expect under your leadership?
Alexander Schall: At REMA TIP TOP, we live our sustainability philosophy: repairing is always better than throwing something away and buying something new. This is increasingly being recognized by the market. I am currently working on several innovative projects to further develop tires and inner tubes and to improve the technical equipment in the workshops.
Can you already say what it is specifically about?
Alexander Schall: These include new tube patches for the advanced TPU tubes. They offer improved durability and flexibility, resulting in a longer service life and better performance. Our new developments mean that repairing modern TPU tubes with these specialized materials is just as easy and reliable as it is today with conventional rubber tubes.
REMA TIP TOP also specializes in workshop equipment and special charging cabinets for e-bike batteries. What developments are you working on in this area?
Alexander Schall: With high quality bikes, the need and willingness of customers to invest more in regular maintenance and repair is changing. As a result, modern workshops are more technically sophisticated. We also support the industry with equipment, such as our innovative assembly stand, to create ergonomic workplaces. This makes the profession of a motorcycle mechanic more attractive.
We are currently working on a new tire changer that will improve the efficiency and user-friendliness of the assembly process. We are also expanding the functionality of our mounting stands.
The little green repair kit from REMA TIP TOP is legendary and still up to date, even though it was invented about 100 years ago. How long will we continue to repair punctures in this environmentally friendly way? After all, buying a new tube is also quite convenient.
Alexander Schall: The REMA TIP TOP repair kit is an indispensable classic and will continue to play a central role in the future because the environmentally friendly, reliable and cost-effective repair of bicycle tubes is still relevant today. The repair kit is timeless and fits in perfectly with today's need to conserve resources and be cost-conscious. Modern alternatives such as puncture sprays and tire sealants do not change this.
Our practical workshops show how fast and effective our repair kit can be. Positive testimonials and YouTube videos illustrate the benefits and provide concrete examples of how our repair kit is an indispensable tool for cyclists in the field.
You get the impression that many children and adults don't even know how to mount a bike or fix a flat tire anymore. When and from whom did you learn to repair tires, and what is REMA TIP TOP doing to inspire the younger generation?
Alexander Schall: When I was five years old, my father taught me how to repair tires, and it was a defining experience for me. That's why I think it's important that REMA TIP TOP is involved in the advisory board of AKTIONfahrRAD (www.aktionfahrrad.de). This involvement allows us to be present in schools and among the children's parents, and to address all age groups comprehensively. We also work closely with Daniela Gass, the World and German Cycling Champion, who coaches a youth cycling group. This commitment ensures that our philosophy is carried forward.
