Roman Arnold is back: Canyon founder resumes responsibility as Executive Chairman

Arnold, who founded the company and previously held the position of Chairman, will focus on the long-term vision and future strategy in his new role. At the same time, the previous CEO Nicolas De Ros Wallace is stepping down by mutual agreement after three and a half years at the helm of the company. Under his leadership, Canyon has almost doubled its turnover to 800 million euros and significantly strengthened its position in the global bicycle market. The change in leadership marks a strategic reorientation in which Canyon intends to return to its roots without losing sight of its growth ambitions. Together with the executive management team, Arnold will ensure that the company remains closely linked to its founding values while consistently driving forward its strategic initiatives.

Return to the roots with a view to the future

Roman Arnold emphasises the emotional connection to his company and the importance of the cycling community for its future direction: "Canyon was born out of passion - out of a love of sport and cycling. This passion still drives us today and will continue to do so in the future. As founder, I am returning as Executive Chairman to strengthen our roots and shape our future," explains Arnold. The founder puts the needs of the customers at the centre: "At the heart of Canyon are our customers, cycling fans and the entire community - and the ambition to build the best bikes in the world. With a clear strategy, team spirit and passion, we create added value for everyone: for our employees, our partners, our investors and, above all, for our riders. Our promise remains: Inspire to Ride." The return of the founder is apparently intended to ensure a balance between tradition and innovation as the company continues to expand.

>> Roman Arnold - The quiet visionary

Successful era under Nicolas De Ros Wallace

Outgoing CEO Nicolas De Ros Wallace made a significant contribution to the company's growth during his time in office. Under his leadership, Canyon almost doubled its turnover to 800 million euros and significantly expanded its market position. De Ros Wallace has strengthened Canyon's brand position in the global bike market, expanded the company's organisational capabilities and cemented its reputation for innovation, performance and direct-to-consumer excellence. The Canyon Board of Directors would like to thank him for his commitment and leadership. Roman Arnold recognises the achievements of his successor: "Nico has brought valuable expertise and new perspectives to Canyon at an important stage in our development. His leadership has created a strong foundation over the past years and I am grateful for his commitment and achievements." De Ros Wallace himself looks back positively on his time at Canyon: "It has been an honour to serve as CEO of Canyon for the past few years, a brand that is admired worldwide for its passion and performance. I am proud of what we have achieved together as a team and look forward to seeing Canyon continue to grow in the years to come."

Future strategy and growth plans

With the change in leadership, Canyon intends to build on its existing foundation and continue on its path of sustainable growth in the global bike market. The company plans to continue investing in innovation, digital excellence and organisational strength to ensure long-term success. At the same time, Canyon wants to remain true to its founding spirit: to develop first-class bikes, inspire the riding community, connect communities and support professional athletes at the highest level. The brand continues to pursue its mission "Inspire to Ride" and wants to shape the future of cycling as a brand that combines passion, performance and innovation worldwide. The return of founder Roman Arnold is clearly intended to strengthen the link between the company's roots and its vision for the future. Canyon has developed from a small garage project into the world's largest direct-to-consumer manufacturer of bicycles and today offers a broad portfolio of road bikes, mountain bikes, triathlon bikes, gravel bikes, city bikes, trekking bikes and e-bikes.

From garage to global player

Canyon has undergone a remarkable development. What once began in the garage of founder Roman Arnold is now the world's largest direct-to-consumer manufacturer of bicycles. The company has earned an excellent reputation as an innovative company through the consistent use of advanced materials, ideas and technology. The brand's distinctive, elegant and modern design language is unmistakable and clearly sets it apart from the competition. Canyon supports some of the most successful athletes in cycling and pursues the common mission of inspiring people for the world of cycling. The brand's bikes are available exclusively online via the company's website, in line with the direct-to-consumer approach that has been instrumental to the company's success. With the return of Roman Arnold as Executive Chairman, the company has now come full circle in a way, while at the same time looking to the future and continuing its global expansion.