A Triumph as film icon drives sales

A STRING of new models including the Steve McQueen Special have revved up full-year results at Triumph, the iconic British motorcycle maker, writes Scott Reid.

The group, which was founded in 1902 and now employs some 1,700 people worldwide, said it had delivered a “solid performance in a difficult global market”.

Overall turnover increased by 11 per cent to £345.3 million in the year to the end of June with unit sales of motorcycles up by 7 per cent from 45,501 to 48,684.

Operating profit before interest and tax jumped from £15.1m to £22.3m on the back of the strong sales performance, improved use of working capital and a “continued focus upon the cost base”.

Triumph said the global market for motorcycles above 500cc in engine capacity was down almost 50 per cent from its peak four years ago, having shrunk by 7 per cent within the past year. It praised the efforts of its 700-strong dealer network for bucking the downturn.

The firm said it remained cautious regarding the general market outlook for the new year but pointed to the successful launch of models including the Tiger Explorer and Speed Triple R.

It added: “New models are extremely important in driving growth. This year, Triumph has already launched three motorcycles. Feedback has been extremely positive.”