Saab Australia Closes Shop

Carmaker Saab has announced that its Australian operations would close shop after its Swedish owners declared bankruptcy last December 2012. Saab has also attempted to find a buyer of its Australian business to no avail.

Ferrier Hodgson has been appointed as administrators for the failed business. The closure of Saab in Australia means that it is closing its office in Port Melbourne and would let go of six jobs.

Stewart McCallum, one of the administrators in Ferrier Hodgson, said parts for repairs would continue to be supplied to workshops. It has yet to be decided, however, what would be the implications for car warranties and after-sales services.

McCallum said Saab vehicles would still ply the roads and would likely not encounter any problem getting car parts in the short- to medium-term. He added that the company is working with dealers all over Australia to discuss the issue on warranties and to ensure that there would be minimal impact for Saab owners.

Ferrier Hodgson is now focusing its efforts in selling the remaining vehicles and doing inventory of parts. The administrators are also working with the parent entity’s bankruptcy trustees.

General Motors used to own Saab. It started in the business in 1937 as an aircraft manufacturer.