Representing social enterprise.

At the tail end of a busy couple of weeks for us on the whole “SocEnt” front, we attended an event organised by Welsh Government for Ministers and officials from the governments of Ireland and the home nations.

We were, of course, more than happy to attend and talk about ourselves. More to the point, coffee and pastries were provided!

On a more serious note,  the different ministers and officials were interested in our business model and they certainly didn’t need convincing of the benefits of social enterprise. The range of organisations at this event, and also at the SBW awards the previous week, was wide and this made me consider what the term “Social Enterprise” means. 

There are of course many definitions and models, but for us it’s pretty clear. We have a socially beneficial aim; to increase access to bikes and cycling. To achieve that aim, we operate a diverse business delivering a range of bike related services both here at our workshop and also off-site.  As well as the community wide benefits of increased use of bikes such as better air quality and less CO2 in the atmosphere, cycling delivers many benefits to individuals, of which better physical and mental health are only two! 

We are of course proud to have been asked to represent Welsh social enterprise and hope that the sector continues to grow and develop.

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2 responses

  1. Great to have this update. Please correct the article to refer to the Welsh Government though – there has not been a WAG for at least a DECADE. The former Assembly changed its name to the Senedd in 2020….

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I’d just like to say a massive ‘Thank You’ to the boys and girls at Cardiff Cycle workshop. They’ve done absolute wonders for my bike over the years! It’s was an old heavy Peugeot which I bought from new in about 1990. Although I used it regularly, it was getting too heavy for me, so the team changed the wheels for ones that were much lighter; put some super duper tyres on them, and on top of that, replaced the old hard saddle for a brand new very comfortable one. I make sure that I get my bike serviced regularly with them too. Such a friendly bunch too-always time for a chat. There is nothing they don’t know about bikes. Highly recommended!

Sara McGaughey

Everything was explained in a manner so we could all understand, regardless of experience. 

Excellent range of tools and bikes for testing.

Andy Campbell

Cannot recommend this place highly enough. Great to see people who take real pride in what they do. Pricing is very fair and turn around is efficient.

Tom Griffiths

Very supportive and non judgemental tutor, also the venue is really easy by public transport or bike!

Claire Taylor-Shepherd

I had an amazing time here! Russ and Andy were super helpful, I was able to test out multiple bikes and get all the expert advice I needed to be sure in my choice. They were very kind and welcoming! I would definitely recommend getting a bike here!!

Laine Sweeney Bruce

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“Great place to go to get yourself a bike. No need to spend hundreds just get one second hand. Good communication, they even adjust the seat and handlebars to suit your height etc. My partner is very pleased with her bike and it looks brand new! Highly recommended.”

Jake Doherty

Just brilliant! First time using this brilliant place and I love everything about it. Popped my son’s bike down to look at the brakes and fixed it within seconds. I’ll definitely be heading taking all our bikes there for repair and services. Guys were all super helpful and lovely. What a find!!

Marietta Price

Very detailed and immersive. Excellent, friendly delivery by the tutor.

Vietonia Agovav

“Sustainability has worked with CTW successfully for a number of years, with sessions every month on Campus. They provide bike servicing for staff, students and the local community as part of our free Repair Café events. It’s a service to all to promote sustainable cycle travelling to Campus and the benefits of repair. They are so knowledgeable and as well as fixing on site they provide great friendly honest advice.”

Rachel Roberts

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Cardiff Met University

“I have now completed 2 courses at this venue and found the instructors  knowledge and delivery excellent. The workshop is well equipped and has a friendly atmosphere. Highly recommended.”

Mark Palmer

“Fab loved both Level 1 and 2 courses. I have come away feeling confident I can fix my bike. Thank you guys”

Cath Rowlands

“Came away a lot more confident with attempting to build a wheel. The course was run in a relaxed manner and no question was too much for Jon to answer. Look forward to my next course.”

Gordon Broomfield

“We visited today and picked a bike for my 6 year-old. He got to try it out and you fixed the brakes as they were a bit squeaky! Very covid safe! Excellent bike and my boy loves it. Great it has a 3-month warranty too!”

Tegan Partner

The tutors are very patient and teach in a way that is easily understood.

Joseph Irwin

“Excellent quality and speed of service, very well priced too. Top notch.”

Chris Shorrock

Supportive, relaxed atmosphere. Very organised, clean workshop. Clear explanations with plenty of humour, excellent!

Jo Absom

Tutor was amazing, so friendly, knowledgeable and patient!

Alan Bell

Just had a great experience from the team at Cardiff Cycle Workshop. They always do a thorough job but recently went above and beyond on my Specialized gravel bike. It had a very specific, proprietary headset that was difficult to maintain. But with perseverance the bike now works flawlessly! Highly recommended.

Rhydian Yeoman