Southampton Harley-Davidson ceases trading after 22 years

In a lengthy statement to customers, Southampton Harley-Davidson informed social media followers it was “devastated” to cease trading after its business became “untenable.”

In a Facebook post, the company said: “Sadly, we are devastated to announce that we have had to cease trading with immediate effect and hand over all business matters to administrators.

“After a difficult period of uncertainty in the economy, continued poor weather, forced over supply and stocking from our manufacturer partners and finally the devastating impact to businesses of the recent budget announcements, have left us, like so many others, in an untenable position.

“We want to assure you that every possible effort was made to try and avoid this decision, but making it now is the only way we can minimise the impact on all those affected.

“We recognise there will be those of you that have concerns and matters outstanding and we want to assure you we are doing everything we possibly can to resolve these. We kindly ask that you are patient whilst we work to ensure these are dealt with quickly.

READ MORE: Southampton shoplifter stole £300 of wine from Co-op

“We respectfully ask that any queries are directed to the administrators, Westcotts Business Recovery, 26 -28 Southernhay East, Exeter, Devon, EX1 1NS, as is the norm in these sad and difficult circumstances, as they are now in control.

“Lastly, we would like to thank all our customers, many of whom we consider friends, for supporting us over the last 22 years.”

On social media, people reacted with shock to the news.

Jennifer Garrett said: "Sad time for all the employees!"

Lindsay Cox said: "Ah that's really sad! Loved seeing the bikers on the weekends gathering there, Reminded me of my childhood. Sorry this has had to happen."

Tony Long said: "To all Soton H-D staff - sorry guys, bad news at worst time. Hope you get sorted out quickly and settle into new jobs. I hope New Year is a better one."