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"Business
Partner search for the Sports industry in Central Europe"
Yakima confirms GROFA as Exclusive Distribution Partner in DACH to Strengthen European Expansion
2025-07-18
source own
New distribution structure reinforces Yakima’s growth strategy in the outdoor and cycling sectors
Yakima, a global leader in outdoor cargo solutions for over 45 years, has announced a strategic distribution partnership with GROFA Action Sports GmbH, effective August 1, 2025. Under the agreement, GROFA will become the exclusive distributor of Yakima products in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland (DACH region).
This collaboration is a major step in Yakima’s European growth strategy, bringing its premium bike racks, rooftop tents, and adventure gear closer to cyclists and outdoor lovers throughout Central Europe.
“We are focused on enhancing every journey and building trusted partnerships,” said Ryan Martin, CEO of Yakima. “GROFA’s strong network and expertise in the DACH sports industry make them the ideal partner for our next phase of growth in Europe.”
With GROFA as the central contact for retailers in the DACH market, Yakima aims to improve local availability, service, and after-sales support. The transition from Phobos to GROFA will be seamless. Phobos will continue as Yakima’s exclusive distributor for Czechia and Slovakia and serve as Master Distributor for select emerging European markets.
This new setup allows Yakima to deliver tailored support across regions—leveraging GROFA’s reputation in cycling and outdoor gear distribution to meet market-specific needs.
“Cycling and outdoor adventure go hand in hand,” said Thorsten Kochanek, CEO of GROFA. “More customers are integrating bike travel into their lifestyle, and Yakima fits perfectly into our product family with practical, reliable solutions.”
As part of the expanded collaboration, Yakima will introduce its 2025 product range to the DACH market, including:
Next-gen bike racks
Innovative rooftop tents
Versatile cargo carriers
The brand will be showcased at Abenteuer Allrad in Bad Kissingen and Eurobike 2025 in Frankfurt, where GROFA and Yakima will jointly present the newest innovations and meet with trade partners from across Europe.
Why This Matters for the Sports Industry in Central Europe
This partnership strengthens the distribution of cycling and outdoor products in Central Europe, with Yakima and GROFA offering:
Regional expertise in the DACH market
Seamless support for specialist retailers
Strong alignment between product innovation and consumer lifestyle trends
Whether you're looking for distribution partners in Central Europe, expanding your outdoor or cycling product range, or exploring new business opportunities in the DACH region, this partnership shows the growing strength of strategic alliances in the European sports industry.
To explore Yakima’s product range or learn more about becoming a retailer, visit yakima.com.
