By William Coleman
In July it was reported that Lunar caravans were unfortunately going to go into administration following some cash flow issues and a very challenging market. This now seems to be in their rear view mirror following some new investment from across the globe.
It’s never good news when a company that employs around 140 people goes under. Now add all of that company’s existing customers who have products under warranty then you have a really big issue. This was the situation at Lunar caravans just a few weeks ago.
Following some rocky times that lead to the company going into administration it seems that there is a bright light at the end of the tunnel as an engineering company have stepped in to take over.
Despite being bought out there has still been 120 jobs lost due to the administration process. The trade and assets of the Preston based manufacturer have been bought.
The deal that has been made will actually see around 60 staff transferred over to the new owners.
Partner David Acland said: “Lunar is a well-established manufacturer and given this is their 50th anniversary year, the sale has even greater significance.
“We would like to thank the staff and management of Lunar who have worked hard with us over the last few weeks. It has been tough at times but their professionalism and positive attitude has contributed to this result.
“We would also like to acknowledge the support of key stakeholders involved within the business, in particular South Ribble Council and the Unite Union.”
Nicholas Marks, managing director of Lunar Automotive, added: “We are delighted to have acquired Lunar, we look forward to working with the team, suppliers and customers as we build on this well respected brand.”
Following the new ownership they will trade under the new name of ‘Lunar Automotive’. Lunar have now become part of MEWA who are a South African engineering specialist group. Founded by Cecil Marks MEWA has a strong heritage in the global stainless steel industry.
Newly appointed Lunar Automotive Director, Nicholas Marks, said, “The MEWA group has been involved in specialist engineering and component manufacture for 100 years. This experience and capability, coupled with the manufacturing expertise acquired with the existing team at Lunar, bodes well for the brand, not only celebrate its 50th anniversary but to look forward to the next 50 years.”
Following the buyout the production of caravans is scheduled to start up again in September, the new 2020 models are ready and waiting to be introduced to the dealer network.
Lunar will be heading into their new sales force with full momentum and is being headed by Lee Roberts who has been an essential part of team Lunar for well over 6 years. Lee will be focusing efforts on maximising the new 2020 stock for the upcoming season come the new year.
Since the bad news, and following the positive, dealers have remained extremely supportive, Nicholas will be confirming the dealer network in the near future.
He also stated that motorhomes will continue to be an integral part of Lunar’s expanded product range, “We are discussing some interesting ideas that will continue to show the ingenuity of our design and production teams going forward.”
The new season will see a strong focus on exceptional build quality with longer term plans to include some very exciting products utilising highly innovative engineering, design and manufacturing processes.
