BERGAMO, Italy (BRAIN) Bianchi on Thursday said it is continuing to operate and support its dealers and consumers while refocusing on its core strengths of racing, gravel and performance bikes. It said its first products resulting from the re-focus will be introduced early next year.The company filed for creditor protection in an Italian courtin late September. Court documents reveal debts of as much as 100 million ($112 million)."The aim is to place the company's financial position on a sustainable footing following several challenging years for Bianchi and the wider bicycle industry," read a company statement shared with BRAIN on Thursday. "The process is being conducted under the company's existing management, and Bianchi continues to operate. It remains committed to its dealers and customers, including deliveries, applicable warranty obligations and after-sales service, and continues to work with its key suppliers," the statement continued.The statement also clarified that Bianchi's corporate parent is Italy-based Bianchi Holding AB, which is part of Sweden-based Grimaldi Industri AB, which is owned by the Grimaldi family. Grimaldi Industri AB also Cycleurope AB, which owns several other bike brands. The statement said Cycleurope "is legally and financially independent and separate from Bianchi Holding AB."
