When KTM’s bankruptcy became known, dark clouds also gathered over the Kiska design agency. There was immediate talk of staff reductions. However, before Christmas it was announced that a strategic partner had been found in Loxone. Now it is clear: the technology company even takes over the majority. No solution has yet been found for the planned withdrawal of Pierer Mobility from MV Agusta.
“Together we will not only secure jobs, but also bring world-leading product design and brand experiences – both in building automation and other promising topics,” said Thomas Moser, co-founder of Loxone, on December 20, when the technology company from Kollerschlag (Upper Austria) announced together with Kiska: they are entering into a strategic partnership.
Uncertainties after the loss of an important customer
With this entry, Loxone proves to be a savior in an emergency. Due to the bankruptcy of motorcycle manufacturer KTM, the Salzburg design company suddenly found itself faced with an uncertain future and also planned major staff reductions to overcome the crisis. “After the loss of a key customer in the mobility sector, the company was faced with economic uncertainty,” a press release said.
On the homepage, Kiska lists customers as Audi, Palfinger, Schöffel, Atomic, Bosch and Head, but also KTM, GasGas, CF Moto and Husqvarna. Anyone who sees Mattighofen motorcycles knows that Kiska has a lot of know-how in the field of design. The close connection is also reflected on the ownership side: according to the company register, Pierer Mobility AG, to which KTM AG belongs, currently owns 50 percent of Kiska GmbH in Anif.
51 percent will soon belong to Loxone
But now the new strategic partner from Upper Austria will secure the majority. After a capital increase, Loxone will own 51 percent of the design and brand specialist. The Federal Competition Authority is currently investigating the deal. The examination period ends on February 7.
Withdrawal from MV Agusta not yet completed
In addition, Pierer Mobility AG wants to divest its majority stake in the Italian luxury motorcycle brand MV Agusta, which it only acquired in March 2024. In this context, no white smoke rose yet. Means: Negotiations are still ongoing.
Source: Krone
I’m Ben Stock, a journalist and author at Today Times Live. I specialize in economic news and have been working in the news industry for over five years. My experience spans from local journalism to international business reporting. In my career I’ve had the opportunity to interview some of the world’s leading economists and financial experts, giving me an insight into global trends that is unique among journalists.
