Phoenix Distribution are one of the real mainstays of the British accessory market, acting as UK distributors for such brands as Nolan, X-Lite, Yoshimura and Arai. They've been brilliant at getting some of the best aftermarket products around to the attention of the British biking public, and their support, both in the racing world and with such schemes as Get On has been brilliant.

It was with an heavy heart, then, that I read the latest press release from them. Because after twenty years, the continued poor market conditions and the pervading sense of doom and gloom that still hangs around our economy have meant that their parent company has decided to get out of the market.

They're still going to be supporting their products, of course, but it's a sad loss indeed.

Here is the full content of the press release - there's no point in my re-typing it, is there?

"Phoenix Distribution was formed 20 years ago after the closure of Belstaff International and has been a valued part of the James Halstead Group plc since its inception.

During this period the company has moved premises three times due to expansion and over the years built a successful motorcycle accessory business.

However, more recently Phoenix has been seriously affected with the recession particularly with the weakness of sterling pushing up import prices and keeping confidence low and this, together with a declining motorcycle market and sales, has led to a reassessment of the business.

It is with sadness that we inform you that the Board of James Halstead Group have taken the decision to seek an exit from the motorcycle business and 2012 will be the final year with the Group’s involvement.

James Halstead has not looked to sell the business and has talked with its longstanding partner Arai and both companies plan to work together to ensure that there is continuity of support in the UK through the transitional period.

It is too early to say what form the exit of James Halstead will take and this decision will be made after talks with the various brand owners but at this time, an orderly closure looks the most likely option."

So there we have it. Possibly the end of yet another era...

SB