Fashion Whispers give you the inside track on the fabulous world of Shanghai fashion.
One year after Italian high-end bike brand Abici first made its foray into China, its two-wheels have become as coveted as the hottest ‘it’ bag around.
We paid a visit to the venture’s showroom near Lujiabang Lu and had a chat with store owner He Yunkai. The array of colorful bikes welcoming us as we stepped into the edgy, sleek space were a treat to the eye.
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Tell us about the brand...
Abici was founded in Italy in 2006 by three young designers: Giuseppe Marcheselli，Stefano Seletti and Cristiano Gozzi. It focuses on bringing to life the iconic designs of the past – classic Italian bikes that were simple yet stylish. The name for the brand comes from the Italian “la bici”, which means “the bicycle.” The founders wanted it to be as simple as the bike itself, and easy to remember. Abici mixes innovation with traditions. That’s what it is all about, really.
Who are your target customers?
People who enjoy high quality in their lives. Those who know how to spend their money and always look for things with personality.
Why did you decide to import this specific brand into China?
The design is unique and the colors bright and beautiful. Abici makes new models with new colors every one or two years, and they really are fashion accessories. Each bikes is handmade - Italians have a unique sense of design and assembling techniques.
When you say handmade, what exactly do you mean?
Italian-style steel frames with joints and braze welding, which make the bike much firmer to use. Also, each part of the entire vehicle is hand-assembled and the technician’s name is handwritten on its label, so it’s easy to trace them back. The whole assembling process is completed in Italy before importing the two-wheels to our store – which is the first in China.
What are the bikes’ specifics? What is the price range?
They’re designed to be easy-to-carry. The heaviest one is 17.5kg, the lightest only 7kg. They are all made of steel and are very durable to use. The price range is RMB9,680-16,680.
Where do you see high-end bicycles going in China in the next ten years?
It’s a tough business, to be honest, because not everyone can afford them. At the same time, there isn’t much competition in the market right now. We need to spread the word more, create a niche market for high-end rides!
What is your biggest ambition?
For bikes to become essential components of most people’s lives.
// See Listing Here (ww.abici-italia.cn)
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