Queensland motorhome builder Apollo will receive a $10 million concessional loan from the Palaszczuk Government to support more jobs in the manufacturing and tourism industries.
Apollo is a multi-national, vertically integrated manufacturer, rental fleet operator, wholesaler and retailer of a broad range of recreational vehicles, including motorhomes, campervans and caravans, employing 220 people in Queensland.
Treasurer, Minister for Infrastructure and Planning Cameron Dick said Apollo will use the loan to increase their business’ focus on manufacturing. The company will ramp up their manufacturing days from four to five days a week.
“Every day we’re seeing more caravans and RVs hit the road in Queensland, spending money in businesses right across our state,” Mr Dick said.
“Apollo’s factory also support hundreds of Queensland small businesses who supply components as part of the manufacturing process.”
The ban on international travel has had a strong impact on the RV rental company who lost three quarters of its rental market, a large part of which was European tourists. However Mr Dick said the sale of motorhomes is holding up well as Queensland’s strong health response to COVID allows more businesses in the state to open up.
“While our strong health response has spared Queensland from some of the worst economic impacts of COVID, we know many businesses are still hurting, especially in sectors like tourism” Mr Dick said.
“That’s why we continue to deliver targeted support measures to affected industries, protecting Queensland jobs.”
“As part of our plan to Unite and Recover for Queensland jobs, we have helped companies in sectors including tourism and aviation, building, construction, infrastructure and maintenance, taxis and limousines, agriculture, resources exploration and international education.”
Meanwhile CEO of Apollo Tourism Luke Trouchet said the company is very appreciative of the financial assistance package from the Queensland Government.
“This support will help us navigate through this period of uncertainty, give us the opportunity to create a stronger platform, and continue to employ hundreds of people,” Mr Trouchet said.
“We applaud the steps being taken by the Queensland Government to minimise the economic impact of COVID-19 and help many businesses survive to participate in an eventual recovery.”
