A prominent Australian manufacturer of luxury caravans has been forced into voluntary administration mere weeks before the Christmas holiday period, casting a shadow over the future of its 250 employees and numerous customers.
Company Enters Administration, Trading Reduced
Zone RV, a builder of high-end off-road caravans based on Queensland's Sunshine Coast, appointed the firm Cor Cordis as administrators this week. The administrators have initiated an urgent review of the business's operations. While the company continues to trade, it is doing so in a substantially reduced capacity.
The company's workforce was informed of the precarious situation on Monday, leaving them facing an uncertain festive season. The first meeting for creditors has been scheduled for December 10.
Stakeholders Left in Limbo
In a statement, Cor Cordis said its main goal was to preserve value for all stakeholders, which includes the employees, customers, and suppliers. Administrator Rahul Goyal emphasised that the immediate priority is to assess all viable options to secure the best possible outcome and explore a sustainable future for the Zone RV brand.
The news has caused significant distress among customers who had paid for vehicles. One customer from Melbourne reported they were already driving to Queensland to collect their new RV when they received the devastating update.
"We are fully paid and was having handover on Friday," the customer said on social media. "Turning around and heading home now." This sentiment has been echoed by others online, expressing deep disappointment and frustration.
What Happens Next?
The coming weeks will be critical for Zone RV. The administrators' review will determine whether the business can be restructured and saved, or if it will face liquidation. The outcome will have serious ramifications for:
- The 250 employees and their families.
- Customers who have paid deposits or are awaiting delivery.
- A network of suppliers and the wider manufacturing sector.
The timing, just before Christmas, adds a particularly harsh dimension to the financial collapse of this well-known luxury caravan maker.
