American Machine and Foundry (AMF) was a company that acquired Harley-Davidson in 1969. AMF was primarily known for its diverse manufacturing operations, including the production of bowling equipment, bicycles, and leisure products. The acquisition of Harley-Davidson was part of AMF's strategy to expand into the motorcycle industry.
During the period of AMF's ownership, there were several changes and challenges faced by Harley-Davidson. Here are some key points about how AMF Harley-Davidson operated:
Increased Production: AMF aimed to increase production and streamline operations at Harley-Davidson. They invested in expanding manufacturing facilities and introduced new assembly line techniques to boost production numbers.
Quality Control Issues: Despite the efforts to increase production, AMF Harley-Davidson faced significant challenges in maintaining quality control. The company struggled with various issues such as poor workmanship, inconsistent build quality, and reliability problems. These issues led to a decline in the reputation of Harley-Davidson motorcycles during this period.
Labor Strikes and Employee Relations: AMF's management practices and labor relations were also points of contention. The company faced several labor strikes and clashes with the workforce over issues such as job security, wages, and working conditions. These disputes had an impact on the company's operations and image.
Diversification of Product Line: Under AMF ownership, Harley-Davidson expanded its product line beyond motorcycles. They introduced various non-motorcycle products, including snowmobiles, golf carts, and even an unsuccessful attempt at producing a moped called the "Harley-Davidson Rapido."
Ownership Transition: Due to the challenges faced by AMF Harley-Davidson and declining sales, the company decided to divest its ownership of Harley-Davidson in the early 1980s. In 1981, a group of investors led by Willie G. Davidson (the grandson of one of the original founders) purchased the company back from AMF, thus ending the AMF era of Harley-Davidson.
It's worth noting that the AMF period is often considered a challenging time for Harley-Davidson, characterized by quality control issues and declining reputation. However, after the ownership transition, Harley-Davidson managed to revitalize its brand and regain its position as a leading motorcycle manufacturer through various initiatives and improvements.