Tourism Holdings Limited will close its RV manufacturing factory in Brisbane later this month and transition all production to Action Manufacturing in Hamilton, following a comprehensive review of its Australasian operations.
The closure, effective December 19, will see about 110 frontline and support roles disestablished in Australia. The company says the decision reflects sustained weakness in the Australian RV manufacturing sector, recent consolidation of THL’s dealership network, and the completion of much of its fleet regrowth programme.
Chief executive Grant Webster says the decision has significant implications for staff, but supports the company’s long-term operating model.
“I want to acknowledge the significant impact this decision will have on our manufacturing crew in Brisbane.
“It is reflective of the sustained downturn in the broader Australian RV manufacturing industry, the recent consolidation of THL’s dealership footprint as part of the Australian retail strategic initiative, and the fact that THL has completed a significant part of its Australasian fleet regrowth programme,” Webster says.
He notes that fleet numbers across Australasia have grown by 45% over the past two financial years as the business responded to recovering tourism and rental demand, and manufacturing in both countries enabled that rapid expansion.
“The transition of production to New Zealand will allow THL to immediately capture the cost advantage opportunities, and to maintain strong overhead leverage despite expected lower overall manufacturing volumes across Australasia.
“It is one of several strategic actions underway in what we view as a transition year, positioning THL for a stronger platform heading into FY27,” Webster says.
Some frontline role reductions will be offset as production ramps up in New Zealand during 2026, but most support roles will not be duplicated and will instead be absorbed into existing teams. The company also expects to exit the lease on its Brisbane factory during 2026.
The changes are expected to deliver substantial and ongoing overhead cost savings.
“We remain committed to the Australian market, anchored by an RV rental business that continues to have a strong forward order book,” Webster says.
