Former Dixons and Maxeda director Nick Wilkinson is returning to UK retail as the new chief executive of Evans Cycles.

Wilkinson, who is a keen cyclist, will take up the role immediately, taking over executive control from chairman Nick Evans. He has also taken an undisclosed stake in the business. Director Mike Rice takes control of product and supply chain within the business.

Evans, owned by Active Private Equity, has 42 stores and has grown sales to over £100m since its acquisition in 2008. Online sales represent 30% of turnover.

Wilkinson’s most recent role was as chief executive of KKR-backed Maxeda DIY in the Netherlands. Prior to that, he occupied various senior roles at Dixons, including being managing director of E-commerce, Currys and The Link at various points.