Find Books

This section will introduce several "how-to" books on business to help you get started with your research. These books will primarily introduce you to business plan writing. These books will also introduce general business types such as retail and service business models.

 

Find Books Using Relevant Subject Headings

• Bicycle stores -- Management.
• Bicycle industry.
• Advertising – Bicycle industry.  
• Commercial cycling businesses.
• Retail trade -- Management.
• New business enterprises -- Management.
• Small business -- Management.

 

Google Books 
Google Books is a search feature offered by Google. It enables users to search the full text of approximately 10 million books that Google has scanned and stored in its digital database. It also offers previews of books that are currently still in print.

Worldcat 
A global catalogue of library collections from various libraries around the world. You can search for books on business planning, new enterprises, start-ups, or your specific industry. You can search for all the locations with copies of a specific item, and then locate the item in a nearby library. In Worldcat, you can also view research articles and other digital content directly online.

 

illume
A search portal to BC's post-secondary and public library collections (93 libraries). 

Find Business Plans

In the page below you will find examples of successful business plans. Researching your business plan can be a very time-consuming experience, but it is an essential and worthwhile investment. Your business plan will become your most important day to day operating tool. The information resources and strategies in this guide will help you create an effective plan and increase your chances for business success.

Review Sample Plans for Ideas

Most books about starting a business will include examples of business plans, as well as business planning templates. In addition to books, online business resources frequently include sample business plans. Here are a few to get you started.

 

Business Plans

Bplans.com
This site offers a selection of free sample business plans, as well as articles on business planning. Bplans.com also sells business planning software.

• Retail Bicycle Shop Business Plan
• Bicycle Manufacturer Business Plan
• Wholesale Bicycle Distributor Business Plan
• Bicycle Art Business Plan
• Bicycle Courier Business Plan
• Sports Therapy Business Plan - Cyclist Repair Center

 

Business Plans Handbook, Gale Publishing
This is a database of actual business plans written by North American entrepreneurs seeking financing for their businesses. Includes examples of many start-up business ideas. Access is available through many BC public libraries, made possible by a generous donation from the Sutherland Foundation. Affiliates of UBC can start here.

• Revke, G. (2009). Bicycle Shop: Wheelies. Business Plans Handbook 15, 19-25. Retrieved from Gale eBooks database.
• Greenland, Paul. Bicycle Repair Business: Wheels on Wheels, Inc. Business Plans Handbook 28, 37-44. Retrieved from Gale eBooks database.
• Moore, Claire. E-bike Business: Sac Cycle, Inc. Business Plans Handbook 41, 81-91. Retrieved from Gale eBooks database.
• Messenger Service: Legal Deliveries. Business Plans Handbook 25, 111-116. Retrieved from Gale eBooks database.

 

SCORE
SCORE is a non profit association helping small businesses. Their library includes templates for business plans, SWOT analysis, financial projections and more.

 

Are there any other business plan sources you can find? Try: https://www.carnegielibrary.org/services/help-for-businesses/entrepreneurs-and-small-businesses/business-plans-index/

 

Business Plan Template And Cash Flow Forecasting Tool
Our friends at Small Business BC provide two valuable tools in one download: the first is a well-structured business plan template that will help communicate what you plan to do, and how you plan to do it, while the second is a spreadsheet you can fill in to, among other things, project costs and expenses using common line items. These tools will set you on your way to being able to present your business plan to funders. 

 

Marketing Plans

Marketing Plan Outline from Government of Canada |This Government of Canada page reviews the components of a marketing plan and why a marketing plan is necessary for your small business. 

BDC Marketing Plan Template | This comprehensive marketing plan template from BDC is for Canadian entrepreneurs specifically and includes all the important sections of a marketing plan, including an executive summary, identification of your target customer, and how you'll measure your sales.

Small Business BC - How to Write a Marketing Plan
This guide shows you how to develop a marketing plan that includes details like how you intend to meet your customers’ needs and communicate the benefits of your products or services to them. When making any decisions about market positioning, pricing, promotions, and sales, your customers should always be top of mind.

Find Capital

In this section you will find links to information on funding for your business. No business can function without money to pay for overhead expenses and production or product costs. It is also unusual for a business founder to have the capital to fully fund their business. The sources in this section will help you consider the best source of funding for your business.

 

Other Suggestions for Obtaining Capital

With proper planning and a few resources to guide you on your way, identifying and securing capital to start and grow your business becomes a much smoother and gentler process. There are several ways to secure the capital needed to fund your business.

 

Government Funding

This is money that the government gives you to fund your business, based on your application to the funding grant. There are other types of government assistance you might wish to explore here: Business Grants and Financing.

Personal Savings

This involves saving your money from your current employment to invest in your business.

Personal Loans

This option means using your personal credit to secure a loan or using your personal credit card for business expenses.

Crowdfunding/Micro-Lending

Crowdfunding and micro-lending are both alternative ways of raising capital that involve having large groups of people pre-buy your product before it is launched or loan you small amounts that you can then use to finance your business.

Private Financing/Equity Financing

This type of financing comes in the form of loans from banks or individuals. It is obtained through your business’ credit availability or through providing equity in your business in exchange for money. This financing involves going into debt or giving up some control of your business.

Below, we have some resources that can help you find funding options for your business:

• Fundica
• Funding and Grants Database
• Innovation Canada

Industry Codes: The North American Industry Classification System (NAICS)

At the start of your research, it may not be clear what specific industry you should be examining. A good strategy is to find out if your business idea is classified in an industrial classification system. These systems organize industries by assigning them a numeric code. The most commonly used system is the North American Industry Classification System (NAICS). Once you know your Industry Classification Code you can use this number to:

• Find industry-specific statistics on government websites or in library databases
• Generate lists of competitors in company directories

Another common classification system is the Standard Industry Code (SIC). NAICS have mostly replaced the SIC, but the SIC is still used by some commercial databases. Finding and using these classification systems to effectively search can be tricky, so don't hesitate to ask a librarian for help.

Start With These Suggestions

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Search or browse all NAICS or SIC codes on the NAICS Association website. Some NAICS codes are different in Canada — you can search by keyword or browse Canadian NAICS codes at Statistics Canada or Canadian Industry Statistics. To search for a SIC code using a NAICS code and vice versa, use the NAICS & SIC Crosswalks.   

For more information about planning your industry research, including identifying your industry codes, check out the video tutorial for Module 3: Planning Your Industry Research.

Library Databases

The Expensive World Of Business Information

Believe it or not, you cannot find everything on Google! Have you ever done an online search and found the perfect industry report only to find that it costs over $5,000? Did you know that libraries pay for many expensive databases that could be helpful in your secondary market research? 

Search engines like Google can only provide direct access to freely available information. Most of the web, including business information, lives in databases behind expensive paywalls. This paywall-protected section of the Internet is known as the deep web. Fortunately, some libraries pay to subscribe to databases so they can provide free access to their patrons — and many business databases can contain useful information such as articles, market research, and company reports.

There are several strategies you can use to access relevant business information on the deep web. First, we urge you to look up what business resources your local public or academic library can provide access to. Each database has its own arrangement, with unique interfaces and search features. It helps to know the structure and search terms of the specific database you are working with in order to retrieve effective results. 

Also, it is important to know that library databases are restricted by specific usage agreements. It can help to consult with a librarian if you have trouble navigating a specific database. They may also be able to help you find comparable information elsewhere. Libraries with robust business collections might have useful e-books, directories and trade journals. As you conduct your secondary market research you will likely need to consult both free and deep web resources.

For more information about how and why to use business databases, check out our video tutorial, Module Four: Conducting Your Industry Research.

 

UBC Library Business Databases

How to access: If you are a UBC student, staff, faculty or in-person library visitor you may have access to business databases through the David Lam Management Research Library and Canaccord Learning Commons through the links below.

Full Listing By Title or Full Listing By Subject

There are two different ways to identify databases: Use "by title" if you already know the name; otherwise you can search the list "by subject" to find starting places for undertaking market research, finding articles or researching companies. To learn more about how you can access library resources if you are a community user or temporary visitor, check out the UBC Library Community Users & Visitors Guide. Community users and temporary visitors may have additional access restrictions to specific databases because of license agreements.

 

Provincial Library Database Partners

How to access: Check out the database list and note the License Participants to find out which institutions have access. Otherwise, contact your local post-secondary library to see what they offer.

BC Electronic Library Network (ELN) Research Databases

ELN licenses databases with partner academic libraries. These include LexisNexis, Canadian Newsstream, Hoovers, CBCA Business, ABI/INFORM Complete and others that may be of interest to business researchers.

 

ABI/INFORM Collection

How to access: If you are a UBC student, staff, faculty or in-person library visitor you can access this resource.

Created by ProQuest this database contains full-text articles from over 1,000 business magazines and journals that track business conditions, trends, management techniques, corporate strategies, and industry-specific topics.

• (2022, Jun 21). Global electric bikes market generated around USD 45 billion in 2021 and is expected to grow with a CAGR of ~8% during 2022–2030; market to grow on account of growing awareness regarding flexible and eco-friendly mode of transportation. NASDAQ OMX's News Release Distribution Channel. Retrieved from ABI/INFORM Collection.
• (2022, Jun 21). E-bike market - 55% of growth to originate from Europe|Driven by rising popularity of connected E-bikes| 17000+ Technavio Reports. PR Newswire. Retrieved from ABI/INFORM Collection.
• (2022, May 27). Bicycle market size to grow by USD 20.70 bn at a CAGR of 6.75%| software segment is expected to witness lucrative growth | technavio. PR Newswire. Retrieved from ABI/INFORM Collection.
• (2022, Jun 16). Global cargo bike market size to hit USD 3.8 billion by 2030 | increasing investments in product innovations in the electric cargo bike to bolster growth: The brainy insights: The rising awareness about the benefits of cargo bikes will contribute significantly to their growing adoption and drive the growth of the global cargo bike market. NASDAQ OMX's News Release Distribution Channel. Retrieved from ABI/INFORM Collection. 
• Global electric bikes market to reach $34.7 billion by 2026: Abstract: What`s new for 2022? -global competitiveness and key competitor percentage market shares. -market presence across multiple geographies - Strong/Active/Niche/Trivial. (2022, Jun 14). NASDAQ OMX's News Release Distribution Channel. Retrieved from ABI/INFORM database.
• Bushey, C. (2021). The e-bike that encapsulates the global supply chain crisis. FT.Com, Retrieved from ABI/INFORM Collection. 
• Costelloe, K. (2022). From crazy to E-bike craze leader: Pedego approaches $ 100M in revenue. Orange County Business Journal, 45(11), 1-1,36. Retrieved from ABI/INFORM Collection. 
• (2021, Dec 03). Electric bikes global market report 2021: COVID-19 implications and growth: Major players in the electric bikes market are Accell Group, Derby Cycle AG, Tianjin Fuji-ta Group, Giant Bicycles… NASDAQ OMX's News Release Distribution Channel. Retrieved from ABI/INFORM Collection.
• (2022, Jun 09). Bicycle carbon frames market size to grow by 5935.37 thousand units | government initiatives promoting the adoption of bicycles will be a key trend | technavio. PR Newswire. Retrieved from ABI/INFORM Collection. 
• (2022, Mar 18). BIKE.co seeks local bike shop partners across the United States: Premier online brand for local bike rentals, gear, apparel and service seeks partnerships from local bike shops across the United States. PR Newswire. Retrieved from ABI/INFORM Collection.

 

Mergent Online

How to access: If you are a UBC student, staff, faculty or in-person library visitor you can access this resource.

Provides access to US and international public company data. This database also contains data on companies that were acquired, went bankrupt, liquidated or merged out of existence from 1995 forward. Users can compare companies and export data into programs like Excel.

 

BCC Research Centre

How to access: If you are a UBC student, staff, faculty or in-person library visitor you can access this resource. Otherwise, contact your local library to see if they provide access.

Publishes 250 reports annually that are complete with market intelligence, five-year forecasts, statistical and analytical data, key players, market share, industry structure and dynamics, and technological shifts and trends.

• TRBC (2022, May). Motorcycle and Bicycle Market Global Briefing 2022. [Report Code MKB445E]. Retrieved from BCC Research Centre database.
• TRBC (2021,December). Motorcycle and Bicycle Market Global Competitor Briefing 2021. [Report Code MKB445D]. Retrieved from BCC Research Centre database.
• TRBC (2020, June). Motorcycle and Bicycle Market Global Briefing 2020: COVID-19 Impact and Recovery. [Report Code MKB445B]. Retrieved from BCC Research Centre database.
• TRBC (2020, November). Motorcycle and Bicycle Investment Competitor Outlook 2020: COVID-19 Impact and Recovery. [Report Code MKB445C]. Retrieved from BCC Research Centre database.
• Barnes (2019, March). 2019 Global Forecast for Cycles, all types including unicycles, bicycles, adult and children\'s tricycles of metal tubular construction (2020-2025 Outlook)-Manufacturing & Markets Report. [Report Code MBR1034A]. Retrieved from BCC Research Centre database.

 

Business Source Ultimate

How to access: If you are a UBC student, staff, faculty or in-person library visitor you can access this resource. Otherwise, contact your local library to see if they provide access.

Includes financial data, books, videos, company profiles, SWOT analyses, industry profiles, country reports, market research reports and case studies. Also includes information on industry trends, forecasts, outlooks, competitors, how to run a specific business and much more.

• (NAICS 336991): Motorcycle, Bicycle & Parts Mfg. (2022). United States Motorcycle & Bicycle & Parts Manufacturing Industry Report, 1–196. Retrieved from Business Source Ultimate.
• Moore, J., Cornelio, F., Gorrell, E., Martin, T., Fitzgerald, J., Bordewisch, D., Elam, J., Sayler, P., & Coburn, L. (2022). What’s selling? What’s profitable? How does this year to date compare to 2021 in terms of category sales and profitability? How do you expect sales and profits to evolve this year? Bicycle Retailer & Industry News, 31(6), 10. Retrieved from Business Source Ultimate.
• US Bicycle Imports, Trailing 12 Months from March 2022. (2022). Bicycle Retailer & Industry News, 31(6), 12. Retrieved from Business Source Ultimate. 
• Bike repair rental shop occupies train depot. (2022). Bicycle Retailer & Industry News, 31(6), 14. Retrieved from Business Source Ultimate.
• Keener, R. (2022). Battery safety and recycling charging ahead. Bicycle Retailer & Industry News, 31(6), 16. Retrieved from Business Source Ultimate.
• Frothingham, S. (2022). ViAir vies for the portable bike air compressor market. Bicycle Retailer & Industry News, 31(6), 17. Retrieved from Business Source Ultimate.
• Tolmé, P. (2022). The e-bike conversion market quietly revs up in the wake of the e-bike boom. Bicycle Retailer & Industry News, 31(6), 22. Retrieved from Business Source Ultimate.
• Yobbi, D. (2020). With bike repairs ratcheting up, mechanic schools are in demand: Some prepare for a career adjustment while others seek a skill upgrade. (cover story). Bicycle Retailer & Industry News, 29(10), 1–16. Retrieved from Business Source Ultimate.
• Keener, R. (2019). How many bike shops are there, anyway? Bicycle Retailer & Industry News, 28(4), 1–13. Retrieved from Business Source Ultimate. 

 

First Research Industry Profiles

How to access: If you are a UBC student, staff, or faculty you can access many of these reports through ABI/INFORM and/or Business Market Research Collection (Proquest).

Covers over 900 industry segments. Updated on a quarterly basis, these industry profiles contain critical analysis, statistics and forecasts to help you engage key prospects, coach key clients, and deepen customer relationships. You can search for reports by NAICS, SIC or keyword or browse by category.

• (2022) Motorcycle Manufacturing - Quarterly Update 6/20/2022. Fort Mill, South Carolina: Mergent. Retrieved from First Research Industry Profiles.
• (2022) Battery Manufacturing - Quarterly Update 6/20/2022. Fort Mill, South Carolina: Mergent. Retrieved from First Research Industry Profiles.
• (2022) Express Delivery Services - Quarterly Update 6/13/2022. Fort Mill, South Carolina: Mergent. Retrieved from First Research Industry Profiles.
• (2022) Sporting Goods Manufacturing - Quarterly Update 5/23/2022. Fort Mill, South Carolina: Mergent. Retrieved from First Research Industry Profiles.
• (2022) Consumer Goods Rental - Quarterly Update 4/25/2022. Fort Mill, South Carolina: Mergent. Retrieved from First Research Industry Profiles.

 

IBISWorld Industry Reports

How to access: If you are a UBC student, staff, faculty or in-person library visitor you can access this resource.

IBISWorld research is an independent, professional publisher of high-quality market research reports. These reports analyze the underlying structure and external forces that drive an industry.

• Thomas, B. (2021, October). Bicycle Dealership and Repair in the US / US INDUSTRY (NAICS) REPORT 44122B / RETAIL TRADE. IBISWorld. Retrieved from IBISWorld database.
• Ristoff, J. (2021, April). Bicycle Manufacturing in the US. US SPECIALIZED INDUSTRY REPORT OD4357 / CONSUMER GOODS AND SERVICES. IBISWorld. Retrieved from IBISWorld database.
• McGrath, S. (2021, September). Motorcycle, Bike & Parts Manufacturing in Canada / CANADA INDUSTRY (NAICS) REPORT 33699ACA / MANUFACTURING IN CANADA. IBISWorld. Retrieved from IBISWorld database.
• Egan, S. (2021, May). Motorcycle, Bike, and Parts Manufacturing in the US / US INDUSTRY (NAICS) REPORT 33699A / MANUFACTURING. IBISWorld. Retrieved from IBISWorld database.
• Gonzales, E. (2021, October). Couriers and Local Delivery Services in Canada / CANADA INDUSTRY (NAICS) REPORT 49222CA / TRANSPORTATION AND WAREHOUSING IN CANADA. IBISWorld. Retrieved from IBISWorld database.
• Thomas, B. (2022, April). Bike Rental in the US / US SPECIALIZED INDUSTRY REPORT OD6175 / CONSUMER GOODS AND SERVICES. IBISWorld. Retrieved from IBISWorld database

 

Marketresearch.com/Freedonia Focus

How to access: Check your local public or academic library to see about access. If you are a UBC student, staff, faculty or in-person library visitor you can access this resource.

While you can search this website only some Canadian libraries provide full-text access to the market research reports on industries and demographics for North American industries. They can range from 50 to 400+ pages in length, and contain charts, tables, and graphs, and key facts. Marketresearch.com has varied industry coverage and includes US and international information.

• Freedonia Focus Reports. (2021, November). Bicycles: United States. Marketresearch.com Academic. Retrieved from Marketresearch.com Academic database.
• Freedonia Focus Reports (2021, May). Plain Bearings: United States. Marketresearch.com Academic. Retrieved from Marketresearch.com Academic database.
• Freedonia Focus Reports. (2020, September). E-bikes: Europe. Marketresearch.com Academic. Retrieved from Marketresearch.com Academic database.

 

Business Market Research Collection (Proquest)

How to access: If you are a UBC student, staff, faculty or in-person library visitor you can access this resource.

Business Market Research Collection brings together four sources to help students more easily conduct the research they need to produce business plans, marketing plans, startup plans, market growth analysis, and strategic and financial plans. Includes access to: Hoover's Company Profiles, OxResearch, Barnes Reports, and the older Snapshots Series, which includes market research overviews on over 40 industries and 40 countries to 2008.

• (2022) Motorcycle Manufacturing - Quarterly Update 6/20/2022. Fort Mill, South Carolina: Mergent. Retrieved from Business Market Research Collection. 
• (2022) Battery Manufacturing - Quarterly Update 6/20/2022. Fort Mill, South Carolina: Mergent. Retrieved from Business Market Research Collection. 
• (2022) Express Delivery Services - Quarterly Update 6/13/2022. Fort Mill, South Carolina: Mergent. Retrieved from Business Market Research Collection. 
• (2022) Sporting Goods Manufacturing - Quarterly Update 5/23/2022. Fort Mill, South Carolina: Mergent. Retrieved from Business Market Research Collection. 
• (2022) Consumer Goods Rental - Quarterly Update 4/25/2022. Fort Mill, South Carolina: Mergent. Retrieved from Business Market Research Collection. 
• (2022) Cycling Sports Group, Inc. Hoover’s Company Records: Fort Mill: Mergent. Retrieved from Business Market Research Collection.
• (2022) Specialized Bicycle Components, Inc. Fort Mill: Mergent. Retrieved from Business Market Research Collection Retrieved from Business Market Research Collection.

 

Statista

How to access: If you are a UBC student, staff, faculty or in-person library visitor you can access this resource.

A simple to use statistics portal that integrates statistics from thousands of sources, on topics related to business, media, public policy, health and others. Statistics can be exported in PPT, XLS, PDF, and PNG formats. Some basic content available for free.

• Carlier, Matilde. (2021, September 1). Projections for the global electric bike market between 2018 and 2028. Inkwood Research. Retrieved from Statista database.
• Carlier, Matilde. (2021, September 1). Projections for the global electric bike market between 2018 and 2028 by region. Inkwood Research. Retrieved from Statista database.
• Carlier, Matilde. (2022, April 22). U.S. Bicycle Industry- Statistics and Facts. Statista. Retrieved from Statista database.
• (2021). Statista dossier on the bicycle industry in the United States. Statista. Retrieved from Statista database. 
• (2019). E-Bikes in the U.S.- 2019. Statista Customer Survey. Retrieved from Statista database.
• Kunst, A. (2022, May 18.) Modes of transportation for commuting in Canada 2022. Statista Global Consumer Survey 2022. Retrieved from Statista database.
• Tighe, D. (2021, August 26).  Number of cycling equipment and supplies stores in Canada by region, June 2021. StatCan. Retrieved from Statista database. 
• Kunst, A. (2022, May 18). Mobility service usage in Canada 2022. Statista Global Consumer Survey 2022. Retrieved from Statista database.
• Kunst, A. (2022, May 18). Mobility service bookings in Canada 2022. Statista Global Consumer Survey 2022. Retrieved from Statista database.
• (2021). Mobility Services Report 2021. Statista. Retrieved from Statista database.
• (2018). Statista dossier on cycling. Statista. Retrieved from Statista database.

 

WARC: World Advertising Research Center

How to access: If you are a UBC student, staff, faculty or in-person library visitor you can access this resource.

WARC has case studies from major companies and advertising agencies, as well as articles from leading advertising journals and unpublished papers. It also includes company profiles, advertising spending statistics, and demographic and economic data.

• Peña-Taylor, Sam. (2021, September). Peloton’s engagement-first design philosophy. WARC. Retrieved from WARC: World Advertising Research Center database.
• Petio, C. (2020, May). US, Motorcycles & Bikes Ad/Sales ratio. WARC Data Points. Retrieved from WARC database.
• (2021). Peloton: Brand campaign. WARC Awards for Effectiveness. Retrieved from WARC database.
• Salvo, T. (2020). Harley-Davidson: Boosting SEO with topic models. WARC Media Awards. Retrieved from WARC: World Advertising Research Center database.
• (2018). Harley-Davidson Canada: Common Ground. AME Awards. Retrieved from WARC: World Advertising Research Center database.
• (2021). What’s working in sustainability 2021. WARC Category Intelligence. Retrieved from WARC: World Advertising Research Center database.

 

Newspapers and News Sources - UBC Library Research Guide

How to access: The guide can be viewed through the link below. Individual resources and databases will have different access requirements.

UBC Library has an excellent collection of current and historical newspapers from B.C., Canada, and around the world. UBC affiliates will have access to these resources.

• Arrais, P. (2022, May 5). Bicycle stores see progress as they pedal hard to meet crazy demand. Times-Colonist. Retrieved from Canadian Newsstream database.
• Semeniuk, I. (2022, Apr 21). Report links traffic pollution, health effects: Research suggests there is a strong imperative for shifting to electric vehicles, greener cities. The Globe and Mail. Retrieved from Canadian Newsstream database.
• Lundy, L. (2021, June 26). “'It's turmoil': Why the global bike shortage isn't ending soon; Supply chains are under stress. That’s especially the case for bicycles, a booming industry in the pandemic. The Globe and Mail. Retreived from NexisUni database.
• North America: The time for electric motorcycles has arrived. (2022, Apr 12). Canada NewsWire. Retrieved from Canadian Newsstream database. 
• (2019, September 16). 3D printing rolls into the bicycle industry. Plastics News. Retrieved from NexisUni database.

Industry News

In this section we have gathered some of the most popular information sources, such as trade journals, magazines, blogs, and association websites. Industry information is always changing. For the latest news, current issues and popular opinions, try following one or more of these sources. In addition, interacting with the websites that provide this information through commenting and asking questions may also provide you with more information.

 

Associations

Trade associations often publish free industry newsletters that are excellent sources of information for your business plan. Such newsletters often have articles that cover in-depth topics on business management, manufacturing practices, how-tos, and current industry news.

British Columbia Associations

The BC Cycling Coalition | A voice for active and practical transportation in British Columbia, the BC Cycling Coalition works with agencies to influence changes that make cycling safer and more accessible throughout the province. Check out their reports and work, including e-bike rebates for individuals and for businesses and the Motor Vehicle Act Reform. 

CyclingBC | CyclingBC is the provincial body for the governing of cycling in British Columbia, representing all types of cycling.

Canadian Associations

Canadian Electric Bicycle Association | CEBA represents consumers, retailers, and others involved in the electric bike industry in Canada. Their goal is to build a solid foundation of information to support the ebike industry. You can join as an individual, dealer, or ebike manufacturer.

International Associations

National Bicycle Dealers Association | The NBDA is a US-based association representing the specialty bicycle retail industry. Check out their services for retailers, including the Retailer Event Fund. 

People for Bikes | People for Bikes is an organization that aims to ensure bicycles are prioritized and positioned as solutions to improve health, transportation, and connect communities. Check out their research and advocacy on the topic, including their Environmental Statistics and their Protected Bike Lane Statistics.  

Professional Bike Mechanics Association | PBMA seeks to advocate for, promote, and develop professional bike mechanics. They offer several funding opportunities for people from communities underrepresented in the industry, and an extensive library on all things bicycle mechanics and management. 

 

Magazines & Trade Journals

Trade associations often publish free industry newsletters that are excellent sources of information for business planning. Such newsletters often have articles that cover in-depth topics on business management, manufacturing practices, how-tos, and current industry news.

Canadian Cycling Magazine | Canadian Cycling features comprehensive gear reviews, training guides, health and nutrition information, and cycling news and events. Published 6 times per year; both digital and print formats. 

Bicycle Retailer and Industry News | A comprehensive print and online resource for the bicycle retail industry, Bicycle Retailer includes sections for retail news, opinion, new products, and recall of products. 

Bicycling Magazine |A road biking, mountain bike, and cycling magazine that features bike reviews and gear, cycling tips, and training articles. Published 11 times per year. You can also subscribe to their daily newsletter to keep up on what’s happening in the world of cycling. 

BIKE Magazine | BIKE Magazine features the world's best mountain bike photos, videos, news, gear, reviews, trails, athletes, race results and much more.

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Consultant & Other Websites

MarketWatch - Industry Analyzer | The Industries section contains current data on Dow Jones Industry Sectors. Aggregate data as well as company-specific data is available.

PriceWaterhouse Coopers Canada (PwC) | Global consultancy firm that produces reports on the state of various industries.

Firsthand | A free source of industry information. Use the Industry Profiles to research growing industries and best industries by major, and Company Rankings and Profiles to find news, company information, and industry-specific sample professions. Basic monthly membership is free and offers access to blogs, discussion forums, and job listings.

• Sports Profile 
• Travel and Leisure Profile
• Coaching and Sports Training Profile
• Transportation Profile
• Bicycle Mechanics

Skilled Immigrant InfoCentre | This free resource created by the Vancouver Public Library is an online and in-person resource that helps newcomers to Canada find information to get a job, explore different careers or start a business.

Winterborne Bicycle Institute | Located in Dundas, Ontario, the Winterborne Bicycle Institute provides on- and off-site consulting for bicycle mechanics, as well as intensive classes designed to teach individuals the tools of the trade.

Blogs & Discussion Forums 

Outspokin’ Blog | From the National Bicycle Dealers’ Association, Outspokin’ brings together the stories and resources you need to run a modern, successful bike shop. They feature a variety of contributors, including cycling advocates and small bike business owners, and include shop profiles, financial resources, and sales tips. Check out their regular feature, How To Run A Profitable Bike Shop. 

The Denman Bike Shop Blog | The Denman Bike Shop, located on Denman Street in Vancouver, personalizes their business and wares by writing about bicycling in British Columbia, topics such as locking one’s bike correctly, and pedaling (pun intended) their latest bike offerings. 

The Bike Cooperative | The Bike Cooperative unites independent bicycle retailers across the United States in search of empowerment for local cycling retail. Their blog topics concern tips, tricks, advice, and writings on staying ahead of the pack in both trend and technology. 

My Bike Shop Blog | Geared toward cycling enthusiasts, the My Bike Shop blog offers tips and tricks on cycling performance and recovery. 

Podcasts

Bicycle Retail Radio | The NBDA’s bicycle industry podcast brings retailers, vendors, advocates, and thought leaders to the mic for honest discussions about the latest issues facing retailers, while taking an in-depth look at the person within the profession.

Bike Shop Show | Based out of Michigan, the Bike Shop Show is focused mostly on all things bike mechanics. Listen to episode series on wheelbuilding challenges and guest interviews on summer cycling.

Road is Dead | A show that is not so much about bike shop industry or management as hosted in a bike shop, Road is Dead nevertheless features talks, interviews, and debates about cycling. It regularly talks about news from within the industry as well as events, with a focus on Midwestern land riders. 

Bike Shop Society | Bike Shop Society’s mission is to construct a better biking experience. This laid-back podcasts takes comments and messages from all sorts of people involved in the industry, whether the management side, retail side, or enthusiast side, and concerns day-to-day life at the bike shop in addition to news on larger trends in the biking industry. 
​​​​

 

TIP: As with all sources, news articles and blogs should be carefully evaluated. For information on how to evaluate your information, watch video tutorial Module Five: Using Information Responsibly.

Government Websites

In this section we have gathered some of the most reliable freely available online government and employment websites for you to use in your research.

 

Canadian Websites

BC Stats | Current reports and statistics from British Columbia's central statistical agency including labour market information, economic statistics and bankruptcies. Start by searching their Industry section and narrowing by industry type or go to the Business, Industry & Trade page to skim all the different business-related topics.

TIP: Even when the exact industry you are looking for is not mentioned by name on BC Stats, you can look at their Small Business Profile to get a feel for the overall landscape of small business in the province. Here’s their Small Business Profile 2021.

 

Government of Canada - Business and Industry | The Government of Canada's comprehensive page for business and industry guides you through important information on starting a business. You will find necessary permits and information on tax and regulation, as well as advice on how to protect your intellectual property through copyright or trademark, a primer for selling to the federal government, information on importing and exporting goods, and advice on managing and protecting your business operations. 

• Starting a business 
• Overview of federal government Services for Small Business 

 

Statistics Canada Data | Formerly known as CANSIM, Statistics Canada's key socioeconomic database is updated daily. It is free to search the data tables.

Canadian Industry Statistics (CIS) - Industry Canada | CIS analyses industry data on many economic indicators using the most recent data from Statistics Canada. CIS looks at industry trends and financial information, such as GDP, Labour Productivity, Manufacturing and Trade data.

• 33699: Other transportation equipment manufacturing
• 44-45: Retail trade
• 33992: Sporting and athletic goods manufacturing
• 45111: Sporting goods stores

 

City of Vancouver’s Open Data Portal

How to access: The guide can be viewed through the link above and is free to use.

The Government of Canada routinely collects vast quantities and kinds of information on a diverse spectrum of topics. Now the City of Vancouver is making this information available to the public in a single concise searchable portal called Open Data 101. This data is accessible to the public and structured in an easy to understand format.

• (2022). Bikeways. City of Vancouver. Retrieved from City of Vancouver’s Open Data Portal.
• (2022). Greenways. City of Vancouver. Retrieved from City of Vancouver’s Open Data Portal.
• (2022). Bike Lane Statistics. City of Vancouver. Retrieved from City of Vancouver’s Open Data Portal.

 

Innovation, Science, and Economic Development Canada
Provides market research, industry statistics, licensing information for intellectual property, and information about doing business internationally. The Industry Canada site features interactive applications such as customizable trade reports, cost calculators, and online business planning guides. You can also search broad Canadian industry statistics.

 

The Daily - Statistics Canada
The premier source for Canadian statistical information, including census information. Search 'The Daily' releases by subject to identify corresponding census tables, latest news, and publications. Similarly, you can browse by data source, including surveys & questionnaires relevant to your market research, which also link to census tables, latest news and publications.

• Expected changes in spending habits during the recovery period
• Couriers and messenger services Consumer Price Index
• Transportation activity indicators, Transport Canada
• Article: More commuters now walk or bike to work than take public transit

 

WorkBC | Find current employment outlooks, labour market information, relevant links, and a geographic representation of the BC workforce. Start by searching your Industry Profile.

• Supervisors, other products manufacturing, and assembly (NOC 9227)
• Couriers, messengers, and door-to-door distributors (NOC 1513)
• Operators and attendants in amusement, recreation, and sport (NOC 6722)

 

Open Government Canada | Canada’s Open Government initiative makes government more accessible to everyone. 30,000 pieces of data and digital records are available to the public through the Open Government license, including contracts, business records, and datasets on myriad industries. 

• Bicycle helmet use, by age group and sex, household population aged 12 and over, selected provinces and health regions (January 2000 boundaries)

• Express Bike Network (REV)

 

US & International Websites

Small Business Administration: Free Small Business Data
This site is created and managed by the US Small Business Administration (SBA) and provides a list of free sources of information that you can use to obtain data about markets in the US.

Regulations

Learn More About Compliance Issues

When it comes to starting a business, one of the first decisions you need to make is the legal structure of your business - sole proprietorship, partnership, limited liability partnership, or limited company. You'll also need to register your business and you'll need to be aware of many municipal, provincial or federal regulations. The websites in this section will help you.

Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada - Permits and Licenses Search

Search for the permits and licenses applicable to your industry and location to meet all federal, provincial and municipal regulations.

 

General Business Resources

BizPaL
This is the one-stop website to assist Canadian businesses that are just starting up, or expanding into new areas. BizPaL asks you a short series of questions about the nature and scope of your current or proposed business. Based on your answers, BizPaL provides you with a customized list of government permits and licences that you may require to operate your business. All of the information that you provide is kept anonymous, and you may save or print your results for future reference.

 

Canada Revenue Agency - Business
This section of the Canadian federal tax agency's website contains important taxation and documentation requirements that businesses operating in Canada must adhere to.

• Keeping records
• Business Number (BN) registration
• Business expenses

 

Small Business BC (SBBC)
SBBC is a great place to start for information on BC specific regulations and guidelines, for whatever stage you are in your business development. This is a great post on the topic.

 

The Province of British Columbia
Provides information on programs and resources available to small business owners in British Columbia. Includes information on taxes and industry regulations. Start with the Permits, Licences & Registrations section.

• Provincial sales tax bulletin for bicycles and tricycles
• Occupancy Classification and Fire Separation Requirements of Bicycle Storage Area

 

BC Business Registry

British Columbia's online Business Registry is a self-serve application allowing small business owners to complete provincial registrations or incorporations of their business, file name requests on behalf of their business, and store maintenance filings required by British Columbia. Anyone with a BC Registries account may also search for existing businesses and clients, providing access to business information and filings for co-operatives, benefit companies, sole proprietorships, and general partnerships. Use the Business Structures Wizard to help you!

Tips on Company Research

An in-depth investigation and analysis of your competition is one of the most important components of a comprehensive market analysis. A competitive analysis allows you to assess your competitors' strengths and weaknesses in the marketplace, and to implement effective strategies to improve your competitive advantage. Here are some research strategies for doing your competitive analysis:

• Company directories can be used to create lists of competitors by industry, product line, size, etc.
• Doing a company name search in a general research database is an excellent way to learn more about your competitor’s products, services, prices, and media coverage.
• If your competitors are public companies, learn more about them by reading their financials and annual reports.
• News archives provide a range of competitive information on both public and private companies.
• Patents are a good way to learn about the technical and design features of a competitor's products. You can refer to this UBC Library Research Guide, created by UBC Engineering Librarians, if you are looking for patent information. Most of the resources listed are freely available.

For information on primary and secondary market research, as well as common sources for secondary market research, watch our video tutorial Module One: Introduction To Market Research.

Finding information on public companies is considerably easier than finding information on privately-held companies. Information on public companies is readily available online, or at your local library. Another good starting point is the list of resources in the next section of this Accelerator Guide: Find Competitors. Unlike public companies, private companies are not required to file with the System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval (SEDAR). Searching for private company information is considerably more difficult and will require a lot of patience, and a healthy dose of creativity. 

Find Competitors

Learning About Competitors

To create a list of competitors and find basic information about them (e.g. number of employees, contact information) you will need to consult business directories. Many directories are available online for free, while others are fee-based commercial databases. You can find directories that are particular to an industry or geography. Your local library will likely have a good collection of directories that you can consult in person.

For further information about secondary market research, see our video tutorial Module Two: Secondary Market Research for Industry Analysis.

If you know of some public companies in your industry, then annual reports can provide a great deal of useful financial information including sales volume, revenue increases, and total market share. You can search the System for Electronic Document Analysis and Retrieval (SEDAR) for Canadian Company filings. If the competitor you are researching does business in the US, then you search the Security and Exchange Commissions equivalent, EDGAR, which provides free public access to corporate information including financial information and operations by reviewing registration statements, prospectuses and periodic reports filed on Forms 10-K and 10-Q. You also can find information about recent corporate events reported on Form 8-K that a company does not have to disclose to investors. You can use advanced search features to search by Standard Industry Classification (SIC) codes.

 

Free Business Directories

Federal Corporations Data Online 
Free searchable database of federally incorporated/registered companies.

Frasers
A comprehensive industrial directory and search tool, with information on products and services provided by Canadian industrial wholesalers, manufacturers, and distributors. You can search by product name, company name, or brand name.

• Bicycle Suppliers
• Bicycle Parts & Accessories Suppliers
• Bike Suppliers
• Cycle Suppliers

D&B Hoovers
Provides information on 18 million US and international companies, both public and private. D&B Hoovers' reports are generated quickly, and are easy to read. A fair amount of information is provided for free, but much more is available with a paid subscription. If you know the company name or ticker symbol of any of the key players in your industry, try searching for their Hoovers records to find key information. Use the link above for free information or contact your local library to see if they provide access. Affiliates of UBC may have access. 

• Sporting Goods, Hobby, Musical Instrument, and Book Stores
• Couriers and Messengers
• Miscellaneous Store Retailers
• Used Merchandise Stores
• Retail Trade

Proprietary Business Directories

Business in Vancouver, Book of Lists
Comprehensive collection of BC business data compiled annually as the popular BIV Book of Lists. Provides data on over 1000 companies including: websites, phone numbers, e-mail addresses, top executives' names, company age, revenues, profits and much more. UBC affiliates and in-person community researchers can obtain access to a print version (here are details on how to locate it) or you can get your own online subscription.

 

Mergent Online
Provides access to detailed information on US and international companies. Data can be compared and exported into software applications such as Excel. Affiliates of UBC can learn more and get access.

 

The Blue Book of Canadian Business
Detailed profiles for over 60 Canadian corporations, including missions/values, history, operations, social responsibility and executive biographies. Also contains directory type information for 2,500 Canadian companies, a ranking of the top 500 companies and a list of the top 400 Canadian stocks. UBC affiliates and in-person community researchers can obtain access to a print version of this periodical (here are details on how to locate it at UBC in Vancouver).

 

Reference Canada
Provides information on more than one million businesses throughout Canada. Includes name, address, phone number, contacts, number of employees, annual sales volumes, line of business, and credit rating. Vancouver Public Library subscribes to this online directory so check with your local library about access.

 

UBC Library Business Databases

How to access: If you are a UBC student, staff, faculty or in-person library visitor you may have access to business databases through the David Lam Management Research Library and Canaccord Learning Commons through the links below.

Full Listing By Title or Full Listing By Subject

There are two different ways to identify databases: Use "by title" if you already know the name; otherwise you can search the list "by subject" to find starting places for undertaking market research, finding articles or researching companies. To learn more about how you can access library resources if you are a community user or temporary visitor, check out the UBC Library Community Users & Visitors Guide. Community users and temporary visitors may have additional access restrictions to specific databases because of license agreements.

 

Mapping Your Competitors

Online maps such as Google Maps or Bing Maps and popular directories such as Yelp are a fast way to locate nearby competitors, and to get a better sense of the region your business operates within. Try searching for the name of your product or industry and narrowing your results by focusing the map on a specific location, such as a city or neighborhood.

SimplyAnalytics

This is an Internet-based mapping application that enables users to develop interactive thematic maps and reports using thousands of demographic, business, and marketing data variables. Check your local public or academic library for access. UBC affiliates can learn more and get access.

 

Trade Shows

Attending trade shows is an excellent way to learn more about your competitors. Contact local associations or read trade publications to find out what trade shows are coming to your community.

10Times.com | The largest worldwide online directory of trade fairs, business exhibitions, trade shows, conferences, and seminars for various industries. Search for trade shows by industry, country, date, organizer, or venue.

The Big Gear Show | The Big Gear Show is a multi-category trade event for the paddlesports, cycling, climbing, and camping markets. They focus on meeting the needs of goods retailers, retail stores, and hardgoods manufacturers through demos that test gear at the show and a highly-curated selection of brands and vendors from which attendees can discover new favorite brands and products.

Eurobike | Despite its name, Eurobike is a leading global trade fair for the bike business, wherein the bicycle industry showcases itself to the media world. 

The Cycling Influence Summit | The Cycle of Influence Summit is a gathering of cycling and outdoor industry's best business minds to network, formulate progress, and seek out success. A selection of independent cycling business owners and IBD’s attend, as do manufacturers and advocates within the industry.

 

Find Financial Benchmarks

One thing you will need to do in the financials section of your business plan is discuss how you will price your products and/or services, and how this compares to your competitors. You will need to develop a financial plan that includes your projected revenues and net income. The following resources will help you find financial information on competitors in your industry.

 

Free Tools for Finding Financial Info

EDGAR
Filings with the US Securities & Exchange Commission by companies listed on US exchanges. 10-K Forms include detailed information on company history, structure, financial statements, and other relevant data.

 

SEDAR
A collection of corporate filings that are required by securities regulators, from companies operating in Canada. This website is an excellent source for information about a company's plans, competitive environment, markets, products, and assets. SEDAR is the Canadian equivalent of EDGAR.

 

Finding Benchmarks & Ratios

Ratios are tools that allow you to plan and assess your company's progress over time, and to compare it to other companies in the same industry. There are diferent kinds of ratios, including operating ratios, financial ratios, performance indicators, and benchmarks.

 

Financial Performance Data (formerly SME Benchmarking Tool)
Tool for benchmarking your financial reports with others in your sector. Website also includes a collection of financial data and annual reports of various Canadian companies. For instructions on using the Financial Performance Data click here. To create a report using Financial Performance data click here.

TIP: Remember to search using your NAICS code (eg. 336991 for Motorcycle, Bicycle, and Parts Manufacturing)

 

Financial Performance Indicators for Canadian Business
Offers current financial ratios by industry, based on data provided by Statistics Canada. The indicators are designed to serve as financial performance benchmarks against which individual firms and industries can be compared. Affiliates of UBC, UNBC, UVic and SFU have access through Abacus Dataverse. If you are visiting, please contact your local library about access.

 

 

Proprietary Tools For Finding Financial Info

UBC Company Research Guide
This research guide was created by UBC business librarians. Follow this link to go directly to the section of the guide that features various UBC Library electronic resources that are recommended for searching for financial information on competitors, such as credit rankings, stock prices and investment analyst reports. You can explore the navigation on the right-hand side to find more recommended research sources on the general topic of company research.

 

Library Resources

Access to the following sources may be available through your local public or academic library. For information on how to obtain a library card, and for additional information on using libraries in BC, please visit our Getting Access to Library Resources page.

 

Mergent Online
Provides access to detailed information on US and international companies. Data can be compared and exported into software applications such as Excel. Affiliates of UBC can learn more and get access.

 

Tools For Calculating Your Own Financials

• Financial Ratio Calculators - Business Development Canada
• Financial Ratios Calculator: Debt to Equity and Other Ratios - Canada One
• Business Calculators - GoForth Institute

Market Share & Size

Both market size and market share held by competitors are key factors when assessing the competitive environment. Keep in mind that there is no single source of market size and market share data. Market information is usually pieced together from various sources and is not often readily available for niche or emerging industries. One strategy is to combine a competitor's name or a comparable, established industry with the term market share in article databases or read market research reports. You will need to identify and describe your market – who your customers are and what the demand is for your products and services.

 

UBC Library Business Databases

How to access: If you are a UBC student, staff, faculty or in-person library visitor you may have access to business databases through the David Lam Management Research Library and Canaccord Learning Commons through the links below.

Full Listing By Title or Full Listing By Subject

There are two different ways to identify databases: Use "by title" if you already know the name; otherwise you can search the list "by subject" to find starting places for undertaking market research, finding articles or researching companies. To learn more about how you can access library resources if you are a community user or temporary visitor, check out the UBC Library Community Users & Visitors Guide. Community users and temporary visitors may have additional access restrictions to specific databases because of license agreements.

 

Library Resources

Access to the following sources may be available through your local public or academic library. For information on how to obtain a library card, and for additional information on using libraries in BC, please visit our Getting Access to Library Resources page.

 

ABI/INFORM Collection

How to access: If you are a UBC student, staff, faculty or in-person library visitor you can access this resource.

Created by ProQuest this database contains full-text articles from over 1,000 business magazines and journals that track business conditions, trends, management techniques, corporate strategies, and industry-specific topics.

• (2022, Jun 21). Global electric bikes market generated around USD 45 billion in 2021 and is expected to grow with a CAGR of ~8% during 2022–2030; market to grow on account of growing awareness regarding flexible and eco-friendly mode of transportation. NASDAQ OMX's News Release Distribution Channel. Retrieved from ABI/INFORM Collection.
• (2022, Jun 21). E-bike market - 55% of growth to originate from Europe|Driven by rising popularity of connected E-bikes| 17000+ Technavio Reports. PR Newswire. Retrieved from ABI/INFORM Collection.
• (2022, May 27). Bicycle market size to grow by USD 20.70 bn at a CAGR of 6.75%| software segment is expected to witness lucrative growth | technavio. PR Newswire. Retrieved from ABI/INFORM Collection.
• (2022, Jun 16). Global cargo bike market size to hit USD 3.8 billion by 2030 | increasing investments in product innovations in the electric cargo bike to bolster growth: The brainy insights: The rising awareness about the benefits of cargo bikes will contribute significantly to their growing adoption and drive the growth of the global cargo bike market. NASDAQ OMX's News Release Distribution Channel. Retrieved from ABI/INFORM Collection. 
• Global electric bikes market to reach $34.7 billion by 2026: Abstract: What`s new for 2022? -global competitiveness and key competitor percentage market shares. -market presence across multiple geographies - Strong/Active/Niche/Trivial. (2022, Jun 14). NASDAQ OMX's News Release Distribution Channel Retrieved from ABI/INFORM database. 
• (2022, Jun 09). Bicycle carbon frames market size to grow by 5935.37 thousand units | government initiatives promoting the adoption of bicycles will be a key trend | Technavio. PR Newswire. Retrieved from ABI/INFORM Collection. 
• (2022, Mar 18). BIKE.co seeks local bike shop partners across the united states: Premier online brand for local bike rentals, gear, apparel and service seeks partnerships from local bike shops across the United States. PR Newswire. Retrieved from ABI/INFORM Collection. 

 

Business Source Ultimate

How to access: If you are a UBC student, staff, faculty or in-person library visitor you can access this resource. Otherwise, contact your local library to see if they provide access.

Includes financial data, books, videos, company profiles, SWOT analyses, industry profiles, country reports, market research reports and case studies. Also includes information on industry trends, forecasts, outlooks, competitors, how to run a specific business and much more.

• NAICS 336991): Motorcycle, Bicycle & Parts Mfg. (2022). United States Motorcycle & Bicycle & Parts Manufacturing Industry Report, 1–196. Retrieved from Business Source Ultimate.
• Moore, J., Cornelio, F., Gorrell, E., Martin, T., Fitzgerald, J., Bordewisch, D., Elam, J., Sayler, P., & Coburn, L. (2022). What’s selling? What’s profitable? How does this year to date compare to 2021 in terms of category sales and profitability? How do you expect sales and profits to evolve this year? Bicycle Retailer & Industry News, 31(6), 10. Retrieved from Business Source Ultimate.
• Frothingham, S. (2022). ViAir vies for the portable bike air compressor market. Bicycle Retailer & Industry News, 31(6), 17. Retrieved from Business Source Ultimate.
• Tolmé, P. (2022). The e-bike conversion market quietly revs up in the wake of the e-bike boom. Bicycle Retailer & Industry News, 31(6), 22. Retrieved from Business Source Ultimate.
• Yobbi, D. (2020). With bike repairs ratcheting up, mechanic schools are in demand: Some prepare for a career adjustment while others seek a skill upgrade. (cover story). Bicycle Retailer & Industry News, 29(10), 1–16. Retrieved from Business Source Ultimate.
• Keener, R. (2019). How many bike shops are there, anyway? Bicycle Retailer & Industry News, 28(4), 1–13. Retrieved from Business Source Ultimate. 

 

eMarketer

How to access: If you are a UBC student, staff, faculty or in-person library visitor you can access this resource. Or, contact your local public or academic library for their access details.

Global market research and trend analysis database that focuses on Internet, e-business, online marketing, media, and emerging technologies.

• Bourne, J. (2022, May 20). New gadget could help AVs share the road with cyclists. eMarketer. Retrieved from eMarketer database.

 

IBISWorld Industry Reports

How to access: If you are a UBC student, staff, faculty or in-person library visitor you can access this resource.

IBISWorld research is an independent, professional publisher of high-quality market research reports. These reports analyze the underlying structure and external forces that drive an industry.

• Thomas, B. (2021, October). Bicycle Dealership and Repair in the US / US INDUSTRY (NAICS) REPORT 44122B / RETAIL TRADE. IBISWorld. Retrieved from IBISWorld database.
• Ristoff, J. (2021, April). Bicycle Manufacturing in the US. US SPECIALIZED INDUSTRY REPORT OD4357 / CONSUMER GOODS AND SERVICES. IBISWorld. Retrieved from IBISWorld database.
• McGrath, S. (2021, September). Motorcycle, Bike & Parts Manufacturing in Canada / CANADA INDUSTRY (NAICS) REPORT 33699ACA / MANUFACTURING IN CANADA. IBISWorld. Retrieved from IBISWorld database.
• Egan, S. (2021, May). Motorcycle, Bike, and Parts Manufacturing in the US / US INDUSTRY (NAICS) REPORT 33699A / MANUFACTURING. IBISWorld. Retrieved from IBISWorld database.
• Gonzales, E. (2021, October). Couriers and Local Delivery Services in Canada / CANADA INDUSTRY (NAICS) REPORT 49222CA / TRANSPORTATION AND WAREHOUSING IN CANADA. IBISWorld. Retrieved from IBISWorld database.
• Thomas, B. (2022, April). Bike Rental in the US / US SPECIALIZED INDUSTRY REPORT OD6175 / CONSUMER GOODS AND SERVICES. IBISWorld. Retrieved from IBISWorld database.

 

Marketresearch.com/Freedonia Focus

How to access: Check your local public or academic library to see about access. If you are a UBC student, staff, faculty or in-person library visitor you can access this resource.

While you can search this website only some Canadian libraries provide full-text access to the market research reports on industries and demographics for North American industries. They can range from 50 to 400+ pages in length, and contain charts, tables, and graphs, and key facts. Marketresearch.com has varied industry coverage and includes US and international information.

• Freedonia Focus Reports. (2021, November). Bicycles: United States. Marketresearch.com Academic. Retrieved from Marketresearch.com Academic database.
• Freedonia Focus Reports (2021, May). Plain Bearings: United States. Marketresearch.com Academic. Retrieved from Marketresearch.com Academic database.
• Freedonia Focus Reports. (2020, September). E-bikes: Europe. Marketresearch.com Academic. Retrieved from Marketresearch.com Academic database.

 

Mergent Online

How to access: If you are a UBC student, staff, faculty or in-person library visitor you can access this resource.

Provides access to US and international public company data. Enhanced features enable users to compare companies and export data into programs like Excel.

Demographic Data

The resources listed in this section will help you identify population characteristics, and help you develop your customer profile. This research will also help you identify geographic areas where the largest number of your potential customers live. This can be very useful when determining a location for your business, and also when formulating your marketing strategy. Don't forget that trade associations and trade journals collect information about customers and can be great information sources for this area of your research.

 

Statistics Canada Data | Formerly known as CANSIM, Statistics Canada's key socioeconomic database is updated daily. It is free to search the data tables.

 

The Daily - Statistics Canada
The premier source for Canadian statistical information, including census information. Search 'The Daily' releases by subject to identify corresponding census tables, latest news, and publications. Similarly, you can browse by data source, including surveys & questionnaires relevant to your market research, which also link to census tables, latest news and publications.

 

Canadian Household Spending - Statistics Canada
Statistics Canada is the national statistical office. The agency ensures Canadians have the key information on Canada's economy, society and environment that they require to function effectively as citizens and decision makers.

This table provides statistical information about household expenditures by Canadians broken down into a variety of categories. You can refine the table by region. You can view the full list of data tables here. 

 

Census Profile - Statistics Canada
Provides Canadian community profiles from the latest Census of Canada. These profiles are very useful for comparing statistics on different municipalities or regional districts. Includes details on family characteristics, primary language, mobility, educational attainment, marital status, labour force activity, earnings, and mode of transportation to work.

 

 

Socio-Economic Profiles - BC Stats
The socio-economic profiles consist of charts and tables for the various regional districts, health areas, college regions and school districts. Each region contains a map, demographic profile, economic hardship, labour market structure, education concerns, crime, health problems, children at risk, and youth at risk. The profiles are presented in a format that allows comparison to other regions in the province and to BC overall.

Your Target Market

Library Resources

Access to the following sources may be available through your local public or academic library. For information on how to obtain a library card, and for additional information on using libraries in BC, please visit our Getting Access to Library Resources page.

Marketresearch.com/Freedonia Focus

How to access: Check your local public or academic library to see about access. If you are a UBC student, staff, faculty or in-person library visitor you can access this resource.

While you can search this website only some Canadian libraries provide full-text access to the market research reports on industries and demographics for North American industries. They can range from 50 to 400+ pages in length, and contain charts, tables, and graphs, and key facts. Marketresearch.com has varied industry coverage and includes US and international information.

• Freedonia Focus Reports. (2021, November). Bicycles: United States. Marketresearch.com Academic. Retrieved from Marketresearch.com Academic database.
• Freedonia Focus Reports (2021, May). Plain Bearings: United States. Marketresearch.com Academic. Retrieved from Marketresearch.com Academic database.
• Freedonia Focus Reports. (2020, September). E-bikes: Europe. Marketresearch.com Academic. Retrieved from Marketresearch.com Academic database.

eMarketer

How to access: If you are a UBC student, staff, faculty or in-person library visitor you can access this resource. Or, contact your local public or academic library for their access details.

Global market research and trend analysis database that focuses on Internet, e-business, online marketing, media, and emerging technologies.

• Obolenskaya, C. (2022, April 1). Q&A: How Peloton is Building Its Brand Into a Digital Platform. eMarketer. Retrieved from eMarketer database. 
• Wolff, R. (2022, April 18). Peloton’s new CEO isn’t letting activist investors get in the way of his turnaround plan. eMarketer. Retrieved from eMarketer database. 
• Sevilla, G. (2021, July 27). US Senate bill could boost ebike adoption by lowering cost. eMarketer. Retrieved from eMarketer database.

Passport GMID (formerly Global Market Information Database)

How to access: Check your local public or academic library to see about access. If you are a UBC student, staff or faculty member you can access this resource. Please note this is not available for walk-in library users.

Passport GMID, produced by Euromonitor, is an integrated information system providing business intelligence on country economies and demographics, consumers, lifestyles, companies and industries. 

• (2021). Possession of Bicycle: Economies and Consumers Annual Data 2016-2021. Euromonitor International. Retrieved from Passport GMID database.

WARC: World Advertising Research Center

How to access: If you are a UBC student, staff, faculty or in-person library visitor you can access this resource.

WARC has case studies from major companies and advertising agencies, as well as articles from leading advertising journals and unpublished papers. It also includes company profiles, advertising spending statistics, and demographic and economic data.

• Peña-Taylor, Sam. (2021, September). Peloton’s engagement-first design philosophy. WARC. Retrieved from WARC: World Advertising Research Center database.
• (2021). Peloton: Brand campaign. WARC Awards for Effectiveness. Retrieved from WARC database.
• (2018). Harley-Davidson Canada: Common Ground. AME Awards. Retrieved from WARC: World Advertising Research Center database.

 

Public Opinion Polls

Ipsos
Links to Canadian, U.S. and international polls. Includes polls on consumer goods.

Roper Center for Public Opinion
Preserves the data from polls conducted by many leading survey organizations for the use of researchers, students, and journalists. Includes a section on how to analyze polls. Only for those affiliated with UBC.

 

Primary Research

The main point of this guide is to introduce you to a wide range of secondary market research resources but keep in mind there is great value in analyzing other information including:

• Advertising, blogs and sales brochures
• Your personal network and employees
• Direct observation, focus groups and interviews with potential customers

The Daily - Statistics Canada
The premier source for Canadian statistical information, including census information. Search 'The Daily' releases by subject to identify corresponding census tables, latest news, and publications. Similarly, you can browse by data source, including surveys & questionnaires relevant to your market research, which also link to census tables, latest news and publications.