KTM halting production in Austria for two weeks over coronavirus

The Pierer AG group –parent company of KTM - has confirmed its manufacturing plant in Austria is to close for two weeks and has put its employees on forced vacation in a response to the coronavirus.

At a time when stock markets around the world are crashing in reaction to COVID-19 and several nations are introducing restrictions of movement, the trickle-down effect has inevitably begun to impact the motorcycle industry.

As such, Pierer Mobility – which also owns Husqvarna and GasGas – has enforced a two-week shutdown of its operations, citing the anticipated disruption of supply lines from northern Italy, which is currently in strict quarantine due to the severity of its outbreak.

For now, the enforced break will be introduced in lieu of the traditional summer shutdown with Pierer Mobiliy is hoping to avoid ‘a possible interruption of operations’.

However, KTM assures that all deliveries will be honoured for those that have placed orders.

As a result of the virus, Pierer has suspended 2020 forecasts having previously targeted 8-10% profit growth this year.

The statement doesn’t include mention of its facilities in India, where the large proportion of its models are constructed.

Which other manufacturers are affected by coronavirus?

The nationwide quarantine in Italy was expected to have an effect but production continues for now.

The Piaggio Group – owner of Aprilia, Moto Guzzi and Vespa - has announced it is taking special measures to help prevent the spread of the virus, including locking down the factories for a deep clean over the weekend, while staff will be required to remain one metre away from one another at workstations.

Other factories that faced disruption include Ducati, Benelli – plus its Chinese operations – Beta, Energica and Moto Morini