Production halted at KTM, Husqvarna, GasGas and Moto Morini
The move was made to try and protect staff and residents around the factory from the COVID-19 virus
AT least four European motorcycle manufacturing plants have closed their doors this week, as mainland Europe battles with the Coronavirus epidemic.
KTM’s Mattighofen facility in Austria has closed, along with sister companies GasGas and Husqvarna who all fall under the Pierer Mobility AG umbrella. The group is allowing their staff what they call a ‘two-week company vacation’, running from the 30th March to 10th April.
The timing of the closure couldn’t be more badly timed for motorcycle manufacturers, as now is the time when new bikes should be being launched and models shipped to dealers.
The statement from Pierer Mobility reads:
“PIERER Mobility Group reacts to the current exceptional situation. From March 30, Europe’s largest motorcycle manufacturer in Mattighofen will respond to the current situation with an interruption in operation and production until April 10.
This measure is triggered by a possible impending interruption in the supply chain from northern Italy. Many suppliers are located in this region, which is badly affected by the Coronavirus. With this measure, KTM avoids a possible uncontrolled business interruption and anticipates parts of the company vacation in the summer to stabilize the supply chain in the long term. Not affected by these measurements is the worldwide distribution and the supply of spare parts.
The availability of all models is guaranteed for the upcoming start of the season in the worldwide dealer network.”
Meanwhile, in Italy, Moto Morini in Trivolzio have taken the decision to close the factory gates, saying in a statement, “We have consciously made the decision to temporarily close our company, we believe that the safety of all the people who work with us and the whole community has a value bigger.”
Aside from these latest closures, the Ducati plant in Borgo Panigale, Bologna, is now closed, withThe Brembo plant in Milan is slowing production.
Simon (AKA Toad) has been working within the motorcycle industry for more than twelve years, and a member of the motorcyclist family since birth. Growing up around British-built single and twins, it was inevitable that a life on two wheels was on the cards, from a very early age!
