The HOG speaks: “We expect that 2011 will be a challenging year, as far as the economy is concerned"

"Company management is continuing to

take a “measured approach” in its

overall business strategy due to ongoing

concerns about the economy and

the pace of the recovery"

Harley Davidson stock up 69% since 1/28/10 and

up 7.3% after reporting a better than expected Loss

The Business Journal
by Rich Rovito
Friday, January 28, 2011
The Business Journal

Harley-Davidson Inc.’s top executive expects overall economic conditions to remain a challenge throughout 2011 for the Milwaukee heavyweight motorcycle manufacturer.

“We expect that 2011 will be a challenging year, as far as the economy is concerned,” Harley-Davidson chief executive officer Keith Wandell told The Business Journal.

Wandell noted that key economic indicators, including home equity values, remain depressed. But rising prices for used motorcycles and strong sales of new Harley-Davidson motorcycles aimed at younger riders and women provide reasons for optimism, he said.

Nonetheless, company management is continuing to take a “measured approach” in its overall business strategy due to ongoing concerns about the economy and the pace of the recovery, Wandell said. This includes the ongoing implementation of a major restructuring plan that has included a revamping of the company’s manufacturing operations in Wisconsin and Pennsylvania. Complete article