As KTM goes through a major financial crisis, racing consultant Heinz Kinigadner remains optimistic about the company's future. Despite a colossal debt and an ongoing restructuring, the former motocross world champion continues to believe in the vision of Stefan Pierer, emblematic boss and majority shareholder of KTM.
The production lines of KTM in Mattighofen
will resume in Marchafter a planned interruption in January and February. The company is actively working on a resizing of its product range and a financial reorganization under the supervision of insolvency administrator Dr. Peter Vogl.
According to KinigadnerPierer is at the heart of this restructuring. “ Stefan Pierer is in constant contact with banks and the insolvency administrator. He commutes between Vienna and Salzburg to keep KTM on track“, he said.
Faced with external criticism,
Kinigadner wanted to defend the commitment of
Pierer towards its employees and its company: “ Stefan Pierer never had his own private plane, contrary to what some claim. As far as I know, Stefan has never had a dream vacation on the South Sea Islands. He has always invested in new infrastructure in Mattighofen. We must not forget one thing: without Stefan Pierer, there would be no KTM today and not in this form« .
He also recalled the generous gestures of
Pierer towards its employees, such as the Christmas bonus of 2,500 euros and motorcycles worth 5,000 euros distributed on several occasions. “ Even during Christmas, there were always nice gifts for people“, underlined Kinigadner.
Heinz Kinigadner :
« KTM without sports motorcycle will not work »
Kinigadner also discussed the challenges facing KTM faces due to its production being entirely based in Austria, unlike brands like Triumph or Ducatiwhich outsource certain components at lower cost in Asia. “ Behind almost all traditional brands that reappear, there are Chinese or Asian investors. These are good business cases, but they are not sustainable for Europe“, he said.
Pour Kinigadnermotorcycle sport remains the central element of the identity of KTM :
« the idea of not doing motorcycle sports hurts. KTM without sports motorcycle will not work. » Despite current difficulties, he remains convinced that KTM has a solid future: I am convinced that KTM will continue to exist. »
As the company faces turbulent times, these words reflect the hope and determination of a man who has seen
KTM overcome many crises in the past. The road will be difficult, but the competitive spirit and unfailing commitment of his team could well allow
KTM to bounce back.
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