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Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Sales Down, Still Profitable
July 24, 2009

While we see America’s domestic automakers, such as General Motors and Chrysler, losing billions of dollars, bike-maker Harley-Davidson remains profitable. However, those profits are significantly reduced in the current economy, according to a recent report.

Although the company reported a $19.8 million profit for the financial quarter ending June 28, 2009, that is a 91% drop from the previous year’s earnings. With sales down 27% to a total of $1.15 billion, Harley-Davidson says it has been forced to cut approximately 11% of its workforce, amounting to about 1,000 jobs.

According to a statement issued by Harley-Davidson on July 16, 2009: “The company will implement a further reduction this year of approximately 700 positions in the hourly production workforce. ” Harley-Davidson will also be reducing the non-production, primarily salaried, head count by an approximate 300 additional positions, including a reduction at Harley- Davidson Financial Services (HDFS),” the firm said.

While nearly every other company involved in the transportation industry seems to be losing money hand-over-foot, the fact that America’s largest road bike manufacturer is still profitable not only ensures the future for this great American institution, but likely keeps it at the forefront of companies to which others will look.