Welcome to Voom, Newlands Cycles...
If you’re looking to buy Voom Nutrition in West Cumbria then you’ll be pleased to know Newlands Cycles are the latest bike shop to join the Voom stockist list. Newlands recently opened their doors in Workington, offering bike servicing and spares to meet growing demand. We caught up with owner and manager Mark Benson, or 'Bense' as he's fondly known by many cyclists, runners and triathletes in West Cumbria.
Thanks for taking the time to chat to us, Bense! Firstly, when did you come up with the idea for Newlands Cycles?
I came up with the idea to start Newlands Cycles in May this year as there was so much uncertainty regarding our family coach business due to Covid-19.
Obviously its a difficult time and you needed a new venture... Why a cycle shop?
I have always repaired my own and friends' bikes over the years & its something I enjoy doing. Aside from Halfords there was no bike shop or repair centre in the town, and there's been such an increase in people cycling these days for fitness, leisure or commuting I thought it would be a great opportunity. I also feel I can give something back to the community.
What can customers expect when visiting Newlands Cycles?
We offer bike repairs & servicing at competitive prices. We stock high quality parts & accessories to keep your wheels turning, not to mention the full Voom Nutrition range of energy bars, protein recovery shake and hydration drink! As a keen triathlete myself I also offer advice on coaching & nutrition for cycling and triathlon.
You've been open a couple of weeks now so how are things going?
The first couple of weeks has been an experience alright, with a few late finishes, but the feedback & support from the general public really has been overwhelming!
Was anything different to how you expected it might be when opening the shop?
Not really, I was well prepared as a lot of time was spent researching the bike industry & the market before I started converting the shop. I'd say the only surprise we've had was just how low stock levels are across the industry at the minute with the amount of people cycling! The other thing is the demand for custom bike fits which is even higher than expected - its something we are already looking into.
We know you’re not a bad athlete yourself, what’s your sporting background & your biggest achievement?
I come from a running background and got into mountain biking in my mid 20’s but after suffering a bad accident thought it was time to stick to roads! More recently I’ve had back to back wins at Castle Howard triathlon along with numerous wins at local tri & running races and been on the podium twice at the Lakesman middle distance triathlon. My biggest achievement is my 1st place overall at the Ironman 70.3 Dun Laoghaire in 2019 after the swim was cut short to all age groupers.
Quite the resume you have there! So we're dying to know... Which is your favourite Voom product & why?
It’s a combination of two really; the Hydrate Smart formula electrolyte drink & the Pocket Rocket Electro Energy. During my first couple of years racing I suffered a lot with cramps but after using these two products side by side the cramps seem to be a thing of the past.
You obviously love the lemon & lime flavour! We know the Rapid Recovery Shake is flying off your shelves, so what's your sales secret?
I think the taste is a big factor - after customers try a sample sachet in the shop. But its not just cyclists; after dropping off their children's bikes for services plenty of people have purchased who train themselves or go to the gym.
Great to hear more about Newlands and you personally, Bense. Best of luck for the future!
