Tim Mills, who has run the AvantiPlus Mount Maunganui cycle store in Owens Place for eight years, is relocating next week to 37 Totara St, a move triggered by finding a much better rent deal and more suitable location.
The Owens Place location, while good for the shop's profile, hadn't really helped generate sales despite its proximity to major big box retailers, said Mr Mills (pictured).
"We thought having Noel Leemings and Harvey Norman next to us would encourage cycle purchases, but we've realised over the years that it really doesn't. The people buying TVs and whitewear aren't really looking for a bike."
In addition the rent was too high and was hamstringing growth, he said.
"Where we are going to is near the Mount Maunganui end of Totara St and we think it will be a much better location for a bike shop. There will be a lot more cyclists going by the store and I think we'll get a lot more Tauranga business there."