Suzuki Reports 2011-2012 Results

Suzuki declared a loss of 2.4 billion yen (US$30.0 million) from its motorcycle division over the fiscal year ended March 31, 2012. Though still a loss, it’s an improvement on the loss of 10.8 billion yen reported the previous year. Suzuki attributes the loss to an appreciating yen and the financial impact from heavy flooding in Thailand.

Motorcycles generated 254.8 billion yen (US$3.2 billion) in net sales for Suzuki, down from 257.7 billion reported in the previous fiscal year.

Unit sales were down 4.0%, with Suzuki selling 2.59 million motorcycles compared to 2.70 units sold the previous year. The Asian market continues to make up the bulk of Suzuki’s motorcycle business though unit sales decreased to 2.06 million from 2.16 million.

North American motorcycle sales were also down, with Suzuki selling 48,000 units during the fiscal year, a decrease of 5.9% from the 51,000 units sold the previous year. Suzuki may be turning things around however, with North American sales increasing over the fourth quarter to 17,000 units from 15,000 units. Suzuki’s current 0% interest financing program likely played an important role in the fourth quarter increase.

Overall, Suzuki reported a net profit of 53.9 billion yen (US$674.4 million) on the year, compared to 45.2 billion yen the previous year.

Looking ahead, Suzuki expects motorcycle sales to reach 3.07 million units an increase of 18.5%. Suzuki also forecasts sales of 51,000 units in North America for the upcoming fiscal year.

[Source: Suzuki]

By Dennis Chung