In an industry as dynamic and competitive as cycling, it takes more than just passion to survive—it takes foresight, community, and adaptability. The CABDA Expo, a family-owned venture founded in 2015, exemplifies these traits. What started as a modest, local trade show in the Chicago suburbs has since grown into an extensive B2B event series for the North American bicycle industry. The journey from its humble beginnings to its current prominence reflects both the resilience of its founders and their unwavering commitment to serving the cycling community, particularly brick-and-mortar retailers.
A Grassroots Beginning with Grand Ambitions
CABDA was not conceived with the intention of becoming one of the premier trade shows of its kind. Instead, it was born out of a genuine need to connect small, independent bicycle retailers with suppliers, distributors, and industry professionals. The founders, themselves industry insiders, understood the challenges facing small businesses in a rapidly changing retail landscape. With the rise of direct-to-consumer brands and e-commerce platforms, many brick-and-mortar shops were finding it increasingly difficult to compete. CABDA offered a lifeline—a place where retailers could gather, exchange ideas, see the latest products, and receive support tailored to their needs.
At its core, CABDA remains a family-run business that operates with a handshake mentality. As the founders have said, “We never set out to be the biggest or the flashiest event out there. We set out to be the premier. And we’ll continue to do business one handshake at a time.” This philosophy has earned them a loyal following, making CABDA not just a trade show but a trusted resource for industry professionals across North America.
Supporting Retailers in a Changing Landscape
Photo Courtesy: CABDA Expo
`As the bicycle industry continues to evolve, CABDA has positioned itself as an advocate for independent retailers, helping them navigate the complexities of today’s market. From excess inventory to long lead times and ongoing supply chain issues, retailers face a host of challenges. However, the team at CABDA believes that solutions lie within the community itself. As CABDA’s leadership puts it, “There is nothing so wrong with our business that it cannot be solved by what is so right about it—people with passion.”
It’s this focus on people—retailers, suppliers, and industry experts alike—that sets CABDA apart from other industry events. While larger, corporate-run expos may focus on sheer volume or spectacle, CABDA continues to prioritize meaningful connections, education, and hands-on experience. It’s a place where brick-and-mortar retailers can find practical solutions to stay competitive, from learning about new technologies to exploring fresh business strategies.
Growing Nationwide: Midwest, East, and West
Photo Courtesy: CABDA Expo
CABDA’s expansion from its original location outside Chicago reflects both the demand for its unique approach and its commitment to reaching a broader audience. Today, the CABDA Expo includes three major events: CABDA Midwest, CABDA East, and the newly relocated CABDA West, which will be held in Las Vegas starting in March 2025.
Each of these events serves a distinct region, catering to the specific needs of retailers and industry professionals in different parts of the country. CABDA Midwest, held near the event’s birthplace, continues to draw retail buyers from over 30 states, making it one of the significant gatherings in the heart of the country. CABDA East, situated near New York City, attracts attendees from hundreds of bicycle stores in the Tri-State,New England, and the Mid-Atlantic regions.
The decision to move CABDA West to Las Vegas marks a new chapter for the expo. Las Vegas, known for its accessibility and hospitality infrastructure, offers an exciting opportunity to attract a broader, more diverse crowd while maintaining the expo’s focus on community and connection. It also ensures that CABDA remains a central player in an industry that thrives on innovation and adaptability.
A Hub for Education and Networking
Education is a core component of every CABDA event. In partnership with the National Bicycle Dealers Association (NBDA), CABDA offers a wide range of sessions designed to empower retailers with the knowledge they need to stay ahead of industry trends. From workshops on improving business operations to seminars on emerging technologies, CABDA ensures that attendees leave with actionable insights that can make a tangible difference in their businesses.
Product demonstrations are another highlight, giving retailers a chance to see the latest innovations up close and determine how they might fit into their store offerings. This hands-on experience is invaluable in an industry where new technologies and products are constantly shaping consumer expectations.
But perhaps what makes CABDA truly special is its emphasis on networking. It’s a place where industry professionals can meet face-to-face, share ideas, and form partnerships that often last long after the event is over. As the challenges of the bicycle industry continue to evolve, CABDA’s role as a connector of people, ideas, and solutions has never been more critical.
Looking Toward the Future
As CABDA enters its second decade, the future looks promising. The bicycle industry continues to face its share of challenges, but CABDA remains confident in the strength of the community it serves. By continuing to offer meaningful support to independent retailers, providing a platform for education and networking, and expanding its reach across the country, CABDA is well-positioned to remain a vital part of the industry’s future.
While the move to Las Vegas for CABDA West marks a significant milestone, the essence of what makes CABDA successful remains unchanged: a commitment to helping people with passion drive the industry forward.
Published by Drake M.
