Australian motorcycle gear manufacturer Andy Strapz will cease operations after 30 years, with founder Andy White announcing a stepwise shutdown ending on June 20. The company, based in Seaford near Melbourne, has produced all its products locally. White plans to shift focus to adventure travel expeditions.
Andy White, the founder of Andy Strapz, has confirmed the closure of the company's manufacturing operations following three decades of production in Australia. The factory, located in Seaford in Melbourne's outer south-east, will wind down production gradually as existing raw materials are used up, with a complete shutdown set for June 20.
White described the decision as reaching "a natural turning point," adding, "It’s time to close this chapter and turn the page." Customers have a limited window to purchase items like the A-Bag, Smart Strapz, and soft panniers, all made in Australia. White anticipates increased demand and recommends checking the production schedule on the Andy Strapz website.
A former emergency nurse who excelled in his state training, White started the business after noticing inadequate gear for touring riders. His initial product, a stretch strap with Velcro fastening, addressed safety issues with traditional occy straps, which he linked to eye injuries from his nursing experience. The lineup expanded to include Piggyback Strapz, the A-Bag system, and soft panniers popular among adventure tourers.
Unlike many competitors who outsourced production, Andy Strapz maintained full local manufacturing by Australian workers. In a 2023 interview, White noted, “Our reputation is actually what sells our products and our warranty issues are virtually nil.” The closure marks the loss of one of Australia's remaining dedicated motorcycle gear makers.
Post-closure, White will lead Travels with Andy, offering guided motorcycle trips through India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka in collaboration with operator Karma Yatri. More details are available at andystrapz.com.