What an incredible journey it has been! Two weeks since our bicycle store opened its doors, and I'm still pinching myself. It took us 16 months to reach this milestone, but every step was worth it. Rather than dwell on the challenges, let's focus on the triumphs and the reasons behind our journey.
Navigating the process of securing accounts with companies was no easy feat. We understood the importance of diversity in product offerings, which led us to forge partnerships with small companies in South America. It's been a journey filled with learning and growth, and here's how it all unfolded.
Initially, opening a bicycle store wasn't my primary goal. The hurdles of establishing a brick-and-mortar business are well-known, yet a deeper sense of community-driven purpose kept pulling me back. Yes, call it altruism or simply a desire to give back, but amidst it all, the reality of sustaining a business remained paramount.
Another crucial aspect of our journey was sourcing wholesale parts from South America. It involved extensive travels, meetings, and testing of frames from various builders across Latin America. While the process wasn't without its challenges, it brought us in contact with remarkable talents who are destined to shine in the future. Our primary stars, F. Duarte from Bogota, Colombia, and Marino from Lima, Peru, epitomize excellence and experience, and we're honored to partner with them.
Of course, none of this would have been possible without the generous support of many individuals along the way. Starting a venture like Go Grava is a collective effort, and I'm immensely grateful for the assistance received.
Now, as we stand with our store open, bicycles on display, and our website ready for action, we eagerly anticipate the cycling season ahead. The journey thus far, with its challenges and triumphs, has sculpted Go Grava into a brand synonymous with quality and inclusivity.
Our ethos revolves around championing small companies and fostering equitable representation, whether they hail from Latin America or Asia. Our recent partnership with Tern Bicycles exemplifies this commitment to quality and diversity. Representing Tern Bicycles allows us to showcase their exceptional craftsmanship and raise awareness within our community.
Moreover, our exploration has led us to discover innovative products from companies in China, further enriching our offerings. It's not about exclusivity; rather, it's about ensuring a balanced representation in our store. While the journey hasn't been easy, our dedication to this vision remains steadfast.
Looking ahead, the future of Go Grava brims with promise. While there are still hurdles to overcome, particularly concerning territorial matters, we're optimistic about what lies ahead. Thank you for joining us on this journey, and we can't wait to share more updates on our social media platforms and YouTube channel, @gograva.
Here's to many more milestones and shared successes ahead! Go Grava!
