Harley-Davidson Betting on Asia to Relieve Domestic Woes
We’ve covered the multiple issues that Harley-Davidson is facing nowadays; whether it’d be lower-than-expected sales, employee lay-offs, and even the recurring rumor that it may suddenly become a privately-owned company.
To take a break from the negatives that affect our beloved and iconic American motorcycle manufacturer, we bring news that may actually bring some much-needed relief to Harley’s balance sheet, and it comes in the shape of the Asia-Pacific market.
Harley-Davidson’s chief executive recently mentioned that the company is increasing its bets in the Asian market, with hopes of reducing its current sales dependency on its home American market. Before any traditionalists start getting upset, and issuing idiotic comments such as the ongoing Trump-Ford feud, at no point has Harley shifted any jobs or production elsewhere.
“There is really an incredible amount of potential for us in the region, and I think (Asia-Pacific) is going to become a more and more significant part of our business,” he said in an interview at the company’s regional headquarters in Singapore.
It’s no secret that even when faced with a financial slump last year, the Asian economy is producing a large and semi-wealthy middle class, and even bursting new millionaires left and right. This has already been the target of other vehicle manufacturers like Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Ducati.
“There are so many untapped markets, there is incredible passion for the brand, the growing middle-class and disposable income and time people have for more leisure-oriented pursuits – that’s only increasing.”
We certainly wish the Wisconsin-based manufacturer the best of luck, as a healthier balance sheet worldwide will equal better opportunities for everyone, as well as cooler motorcycles down the product pipeline.
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Story & Photos via: [Reuters]
