Why Pierer goes and takes over Neumeister

It was only a matter of time. On Tuesday, KTM boss Stefan Pierer took his hat and resigned as CEO of the motorcycle manufacturer from Mattighofen. Now the new CEO Gottfried Neumeister runs the business alone. But Pierer’s departure was not entirely voluntary.

As insiders claim, the KTM leadership team blamed into the second row Pierer for the fact that the motorcycle manufacturer drove to the wall. It is even rumored that parts of the team KTM would have turned their backs if Pierer had not withdrawn.

Neumeister says to these rumors that he was chosen by Pierer as his successor when he was entering KTM last year.

“It was planned for a long time and we found an orderly transition. I was presented as his successor on September 1, 2024, ”says Neumeister to the Kurier. “Events have overturned in the past few months. I have fought the last seven months day and night to survive this company. This also gives you the acceptance and hearts of the people who want it to continue with this enthusiasm and positive spirit. ”

And Neumeister also provides an example of why a double lead with Pierer would not have been a solution for a long time: “You can imagine when I step in front of people, and once he and once I speak, people look at me and once to him, it doesn’t work”. “If someone holds the rudder in your hand and the other sail, then you captivate.”

On March 17, production at KTM is to be raised again so that KTM can offer new models to its customers. At the same time, the overproduction of 130,000 motorcycles must also be brought to customers.

Capital increase

As reported, the renovation plan has been accepted by the majority of creditors. For the 30 percent quota, KTM has to raise 548 million euros plus around 50 million euros for procedural costs. The quota must be deposited with the renovation recipient by May 31, 2025 at the latest.

KTM needs another 200 million euros for operational operation. Investors should provide the money. It is planned that a capital increase is carried out at the listed KTM mother Pierer Mobility, which then passes the money to daughter KTM AG.

Among the potential investors is the Indian KTM shareholder Bajaj, who has already made 50 million euros available for the operational restart. Investor Stephan Zöchling, who has already shot KTM 65 million euros, so that she could not slide and pay for bankruptcy and salaries, could relax another 200 million euros. Zöchling currently did not want to comment on this.

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