Harley-Davidson has announced a temporary interruption of production at its U. S. plants. U. S. until March 29.
On Monday, the company had asked painters at its headquarters and product development in the Milwaukee area to work remotely until at least the end of March.
But that was before a worker tested positive for COVID-19 coronavirus yesterday, leading to the rapid closure of HD Pilgrim Road’s powertrain operating facilities. They are now in the procedure of “thorough cleaning and disinfection of the building, in accordance with the company’s coronavirus reaction protocol. “. “
The shutdown comes at a time for the company, which has suffered a drop in sales in recent years as young people shun the ancient art of motorcycling, perceiving it as something the old love. While the clientele, made up mostly of baby boomers, is aging, the younger generation isn’t taking over.
In a survey of sensitive maximum consumers regarding the brand’s newest bikes, Maximo said they didn’t like them. When asked why they wouldn’t buy a Harley-Davidson, 13% of respondents over 55 said “people my age don’t ride motorcycles. “
Harley also suffered the departure of longtime CEO Matthew Levatich.
Impala Asset Management, a major shareholder of HD, had publicly expressed its considerations about Harley’s long-term direction and is widely known as a major influence on Levatich’s departure. Appointed Leo Hindery, former president and chief executive officer of Tele-Communications, Inc. and MT
“We recognize the unprecedented nature of this global crisis,” said Jochen Zeitz, chief executive officer and acting chairman. “We will continue to monitor the scenario and take steps to prioritize employee health and protection. “
In accordance with social distancing guidelines, all Harley-Davidson-sponsored events were canceled in mid-April.
Italian manufacturer Ducati also halted production until at least March 28. Claudio Domenicali, CEO of Ducati Motor Holding, said that all visitor facilities are guaranteed, especially the source of spare parts. Domenicali said Ducati is already organizing for the pandemic despite everything ending. Italy has been devastated by the corona virus.
Pierer Mobility Group, Europe’s largest motorcycle manufacturer and parent company of GasGas, KTM and Husqvarna, announced last week that it would take a two-week corporate holiday from March 30 to April 10. The move came after an imminent supply chain disruption in northern Italy, where many of Pierer’s suppliers have been affected by the virus.
Yamaha Europe has suspended production at its facilities in France and Italy until March 22. “Both facilities will remain closed until March 22, after which the situation will be reviewed weekly,” the company said in a statement.
Brembo, the leading manufacturer of high-end brakes, says it has minimal equipment in Milan. Piaggio, Vespa, Moto Guzzi, Aprilia, Beta and other Italian brands of two-wheeled machines have made some stop announcements.