Ducati's record-setting start to 2012
Given the recent acquisition of the Bologna-based premium motorcycle manufacturer by Audi, the news was particularly welcomed by Del Torchio, with the WDW celebration serving as the ideal platform to announce the excellent sales results that Ducati achieved internationally during the opening months of 2012.
Despite a difficult market and a slowing global economy, Ducati sees the continued growth and increased market share, output volumes and sales as indicators of the security of a company that is now well structured, strategically organised and ready to move into the future with a change of ownership.
"Since 2006 we have doubled our market share and sales and there has also been a net improvement in our financial position," said Mr. Del Torchio at the Press Conference. "Today, Ducati is a rock-solid company that has aroused the interest of Europe's largest car maker with whom we're now ready to begin a new and equally exciting adventure.
"The hard work done by everyone at Ducati has paid off and the results confirm the soundness of the strategies implemented from 2006-2011. Ducati saw revenues grow from _305 million in 2006 to _480 million in 2011 while EBITDA rose from _27 million in 2006 to _94 million in 2011. The number of employees has also increased, from 1043 in 2006 to 1193, the number working at Ducati today.
"Despite the shrinking international market (over-500cc = -4% YTD) and after 2011 proved to be the best in Ducati's history, we understandably felt optimistic going into 2012, which promises equally significant levels of satisfaction and achievement. In fact, during May 2012 we achieved an absolute record with motorcycle sales of over 6,500, a 12% growth compared to May 2011. In the US market, sales increased 48% and on Asian markets a staggering 238%. Positive signs have also been seen in Europe, where in France, for example, sales increased by 13%.
"Altogether, Ducati saw sales increase by 12% but, even more significantly, revenues increased by 20% (May YTD), highlighting both the increased volumes and the improved product mix. These are achievements that we want to share with our community, with our public, with the Ducatisti who have come here to Misano from all over the world for the seventh edition of World Ducati Week.
"Sadly, we will all be aware of the devastation caused by the recent earthquake on the Po Valley plain north of Bologna and its impact in terms of extensive material damage and loss of life. The people, institutions and businesses of Emilia are fighting back bravely, demonstrating admirable strength of spirit and social solidarity. Nevertheless, despite everyone's best efforts, some slowing of output will be inevitable. Yet thanks also to results such as these, we can look to the future with the strength and optimism that are vital to achieving even greater growth."
Image: Ducati Corse
