It's true, CyclArt is for sale. I made the decision to sell about two years ago and have prepared the way for new ownership since. Business advisors recommend that advertisement of the sale be handled discretely through brokers, so we have never advertised the sale ourselves. Also, use of a broker means we can focus on business as usual. Recently, Lou Deeter saw a sale listing and posted a message here about it. I thought I'd fill in the details:
CyclArt is a team effort. We have always made use of the skills of several craftspeople working in concert to accomplish the best possible result. I learned early on that painting at a high level, was a lot like music and one needs to do it constantly to keep one's chops. Also, there are significant business distractions in operating a paint shop; especially one that is committed to full service and being in full compliance with air quality and safety agencies. Many years ago, I hired office people to keep me in the shop. But as the business grew and assistants matured into self sufficient craftspeople, the shop could hum along without me, but the office always demanded my attention. So, now I coach and inspect the work of my crew, but spend most of my time in the office. I like having more time to be with my customers and I especially enjoy the research, design and artwork that go into doing the more obscure restorations and custom bikes.
I've been operating CyclArt full time since the age of 19 and I suppose I've reached one of those midlife crisis. I remain passionately interested in bicycles, especially vintage lightweight, custom and antique bikes, but I DO have other interests. I have a plan and a vision for another venture, which has nothing to do with bikes. IF I can pass CyclArt on to new ownership, I can pursue my new vision. IF this were to happen, all existing staff, and resources stay with CyclArt, and there would be an extended training period during which I would pass along all I know to the new owner. We expect a seamless transition from the customer's point of view. This is not as daunting as it seems. Most days, the shop could operate just fine without me. I'm here because I want to be. Further, I've always been a very organized type and the idea of passing the company on has been in my head from the beginning. That's why it's CyclArt and not Cunningham Cycle Painting. CyclArt has a written procedures manual, a database of detailed estimate templates, comprehensive files and libraries. We have our vintage parts inventory well organized, including an online store. All the tools are in place for new ownership.
CyclArt has always been structured as a team with overlapping duties. A new owner could focus on whichever aspect most appeals to them and staff would cover the rest. It is also possible to take the company in new directions both within and outside of the bicycle industry. I have ideas for that, but perhaps someone with a different set of talents could drive the company where I have not been able to.
CyclArt has paid all my bills and supported several families since 1976. The income has never been great, but the satisfaction has been. For some one with the means to buy it and the talent to fly it, the sky is the limit. I'm ready to provide the maps, the keys and hand over the controls.
We're having a good year and look forward to each day. At present there are no offers and no timelines. Our broker handles the advertising and screening of prospective buyers. I did not intend to bring this out on the CR list because I don't want to be distracted from the job at hand. If you are serious about making a living from fine bicycles, the first step is to call my broker, Lou Chavez at 619-608-9912. If you want vintage bicycle parts, restoration or custom paint, call me at 760-599-1015 or email me off list. Our website of course is: http://www.cyclart.com