Meet Chris Sugai
Employees: 20-49
Region: Colorado
Industry: Manufacturing
Success with Vistage
- Increased revenue from $98,000 to $14 million
- Led industry-wide change to 29-inch wheels for mountain bikes, which now make up 75% of the U.S. market
- Maintained a company culture that attracts key cycling talent
“Hiring key players is a cornerstone of Niner. We currently have 27 employees in the company and I can say truthfully every single person is a passionate cyclist and an A player.”
– Chris Sugai, President, Niner Bikes
Before Vistage
When Chris Sugai’s larger 29-inch mountain bike wheel became the industry standard, he faced the challenge of growing Niner Bikes into new markets.
At the same time, he wanted to make sure Niner didn’t become a faceless corporation. Chris rightly believed that maintaining a cyclist-friendly work culture was key to attracting and keeping key talent.
With Vistage
Chris’s Vistage group connected him with guest speakers and fellow members who gave him insights into recruiting and keeping key talent. He worked with his Chair and advisory board to create the scalable business infrastructure that could support a growing staff — while maintaining the cyclist-friendly work culture that would appeal his employees.
Result
With Vistage, Niner Bikes grew revenues from $98,000 to $14 million. Chris feels confident about the future of Niner Bikes thanks to the quality of his employees:
“Hiring key players is a cornerstone of Niner. We currently have 27 employees in the company, and I can say truthfully every single person is a passionate cyclist and an A player.”