Yakima, the global leader in outdoor cargo and adventure solutions for 45+ years, established a new partnership with GROFA Action Sports. With this, GROFA will assume exclusive distribution of Yakima products in Germany, Austria and Switzerland (DACH) as of Aug. 1. This collaboration marks a step in Yakima’s ongoing commitment to expand its reach in delivering gear to outdoor enthusiasts across Europe.
“At Yakima, our mission – simply stated – is to enhance the journey and earn trust everyday; we do that by working closely with strong partners who bring passion and expertise at all levels of the value chain,” said Ryan Martin, CEO, Yakima. “Partnering with GROFA – who is renowned for their expertise and deep relationships in the DACH region – ensures that our customers and retail partners will receive the highest level of service and support as we continue to grow our presence in Europe.”
GROFA will become the central point-of-contact for Yakima specialist retailers in the region, providing sales and after-sales support. The transition of distribution from Phobos to GROFA is expected to be seamless; Phobos will continue as Yakima’s exclusive distributor for Czechia and Slovakia, in addition to serving as master distributor for select developing markets in Europe.
The new structure should also empower Yakima to better serve regional need, while leveraging GROFA’s track record in brand building and customer service.
Yakima’s gear and brand vibe fit into GROFA’s lineup of practical, thoughtfully designed and built-for-outdoor enthusiast products who love taking their bikes on adventures. This makes Yakima a perfect addition, reinforcing GROFA’s strategy of looking at bikes and the experiences around them as one complete journey.
“Many people today take their bikes on vacation as a matter of course,” said Thorsten Kochanek, the CEO of GROFA. “With Yakima, we can support this lifestyle holistically with strong products and reliable service for specialist retailers.”
The announcement builds on Yakima’s global strategy of enhancing product accessibility and strengthening local partnerships, following recent investments in regional distribution centers and expanded international shipping capabilities. Yakima’s 2025 product lineup of upgraded bike racks, expanded cargo options and advanced rooftop tents will now be more accessible to outdoor adventurers in the DACH region.
The first joint presence in the automotive industry will take place at Abenteuer Allrad in Bad Kissingen, followed by Eurobike 2025 in Frankfurt. Both shows will feature the latest innovations from Yakima and showcase the brand’s ongoing commitment to the European market.
