The 1980’s were a decade that altered the way business was done at United Cycle. The customer base was expanding, and the market was becoming more competitive. Remote ads and special events became the norm with a more aggressive and creative approach to promotion and marketing.
Edmonton hosted the Universiade games in 1983, which left the expanded Commonwealth Stadium, a world-class aquatic centre (Kinsmen), and the Argyll Velodrome as legacies. The Fringe Festival began in 1982, which had an immediate impact on the summer foot traffic and parking woes in the Strathcona area. United Cycle became proud annual participants in local events such as the Silly Summer and Christmas parades.
United Cycle and the Brooks family were also busy on the expansion end with a new business acquisition across the river – Alberta Cycle. Reg Brooks retired from active day-to-day operations. A major lift to United Cycle’s seasonal sporting goods department came with the explosion of in-line skates in Canada. The Rollerblade brand skates were first imported as a training tool by Dr. Randy Gregg, former defenceman with the Edmonton Oilers. The potential as a recreational sport was recognized, and United Cycle was one of the first dealers in Canada. The end of the 80’s saw the beginning of the in-line demo vans, moving business out into the community.
Edmonton Oiler fever kept hockey on the forefront in Edmonton, with the Oilers winning four of their five Stanley Cups during the 1980’s.
In 1989, United Cycle joined Source for Sports, a Canada wide buying group of independent stores joining forces for maximum purchasing power.
