Tell us about Copper Co Bikes.
Copper Co Bikes are single speed commuter bikes, electroplated with a high end copper finish and classic styling. At this stage we have two bikes in our range – a Men’s Bike and Women’s Bike. All bikes are hand refined in Melbourne. Both bikes have a few key distinguishing features to make them stand out from each other, such as white and black themed accessories from leading brands such as; Velocity, Miche and Dia Compe with the addition of a front Porteur racks by Soma, that also gain the Copper Co signature finish. Depending on which bike, we also have black and honey leather saddles and handlebar accessories by Brooks England to complete the finish. To support the personal and individual product, each bike has a individual sequence number and personal message laser etched into the frame. We can meet anywhere that suits the client to go through the build and to deliver your completed ride. You also have the ability to purchase our bikes via our online store.
What inspired you to start Copper Co Bikes?
Chris and I met up for drinks after work one Friday night. Talking about what’s currently out on the market, what’s currently trending and what we’d love to see on the market. Over a bottle of red Chris and I wrote out the whole business plan for Copper Co Bikes on a napkin. Funnily enough, we still have the napkin and the business plan has only slightly changed.
Tell us about your career and background.
I’m Jess and I’m 26 years old and grew up in Melbourne. I’ve always been interested in Marketing, as well as studying and working in Marketing, specialising in the exciting new field of Digital Marketing.
Chris is 34 years old and has always been in Business Development roles, either in the automotive and more recently the bicycle industry. I found that I have always enjoyed my growth and feedback in these roles and wanted to push myself again and create my brand with Jess, who is equally driven in her own right.
What advice do you have for those wanting to start a business?
I think the one thing that Chris and I had to address was being life partners, and business partners at the same time. At first, it was tricky to wear both the hats of business partner and life partner, as it was a side of each other we hadn’t yet seen. Luckily, our strength is our ability to communicate and we were soon able to differentiate between the two. This was something that when going in business with someone, life partner or not, is vital to address.
What’s next for you, and Copper Co Bikes?
We have just launched our apparel range which was to allow people to contact with our brand on another level. Another thing, is we are going to be a releasing a track-inspired bike model that we feel will appeal to a more specific style of commuter.