24-02-2025
Bentonville lands Utah bike maker's satellite store
Direct-to-consumer bike maker Ari announced plans Thursday to open a satellite location in Bentonville.
Why it matters: Northwest Arkansas continues to build on its reputation as a cycling destination to help diversify its economy.
State of play: Ari, formerly known as Fezzari, was founded in Utah in 2005. The company claims its premium bikes cost 30-40% below normal retail and are "precision-tailored" to a rider's measurements.
The company offers a complete lineup of road, mountain, cross-country and e-bikes.
Runway Group, Steuart and Tom Walton's holding company, helped bring Ari to the region, a news release says.
A spokesperson for Runway said it did not make an investment in Ari.
The big picture: RZC Investments, an arm of Runway Group, has made investments in Allied Cycle Works of Rogers and Rapha of London, which operates its North American headquarters in Bentonville.
Specialized bikes of California operates a retail store branded as an experience center, which is usually reserved for larger markets.
What's next: Ari Bentonville will be located in the Midtown Lane building in downtown Bentonville. The company plans to open this summer.
