After 14 years, the Toronto brand YNOT (originally YNOT Cycle) is closing its doors in October 2023.
From the time he was old enough to ride, YNOT’s founder Tony Mammoliti fell in love with the freedom of the bicycle. This passion inspired him to design gear that made bicycles even more fun to ride. On the iconic Croft Street laneway in Toronto, he and some friends transformed a dusty garage, setting up sewing machines and getting to work.
Known for its original product, the Pedal Strap, YNOT expanded to offer a wide range of packs and accessories, all designed and crafted in its own Toronto factory.
At its peak, YNOT had a retail store on Queen Street West, international distributors, and as many as a dozen employees producing tens of thousands of products annually.
But faced with escalating challenges of running a profitable manufacturing company in Toronto, the partners sought other opportunities outside of YNOT. They were fortunate to have an exceptional team (special thanks to the current staff, Petra and Kisha, as well as the dozens who came before) who kept things running smoothly.
Tony shifted back into Marketing, though he still dedicated nights and weekends to YNOT. He designed new products, established brand partnerships, and even crafted masks during the pandemic to help the business.
"Creating designs and quickly turning my visions into wearable items was rewarding. Seeing them worn globally was surreal. However, with growing work and family commitments, I know it's time to transition our business," says Tony.
Tony’s business partner, Jason Wood, kept the financials and IT systems in order while building his software company.
“I’m looking forward to having more time for my hobbies, like photography and paddling. I’ve also just started an Ontario Place Fan shop (@ontarioplacefan), to bring back some of the forgotten imagery of Ontario Place," said Jason. "The Wilderness Adventure Ride and other abandoned places are a huge fascination of mine!”
Tony and Jason will be holding a Studio Sale, where you'll find discounts on YNOT products, sewing machines, equipment, and unique YNOT items, so drop by, say hello/goodbye and take home something special!
Location and time: 500 Keele Street, Unit 102 on October 21st from 11am-4pm
Or beat the crowds by snapping up the deals at YNOTMADE.COM now (very limited stock!), and browse our equipment listings.
YNOT intends to continue to offer its iconic Pedal Straps and is actively looking for home sewers in the GTA. Please contact YNOT if interested.
Or beat the crowds by snapping up the deals at YNOTMADE.COM now (very limited stock!), and browse our equipment listings.
YNOT intends to continue to offer its iconic Pedal Straps and is actively looking for home sewers in the GTA. Please contact YNOT if interested.