That is probably the last batch they will have id guess ....
All the best to Rick and thanks for the decades of assistance.
hopefully... as I am a Moss distributor, they usually let me know
It would be great if the Clubs (TEAE, STOA and CAT) got together and looked after the parts from Sunbeam Specialties and used this as a resource to perpetuate the club(s) and the cars we invest time and money on. I could see perhaps money to be made and re-investing in parts sold to introduce currently not available parts, or more of the same that are needed. When I joined in 1985, CAT sold some things not available and the club made money, the parts warehouse was doing well As reported in the newsletters. If more than one club shared the inventory or purchase, it lessons the load/burden and ultimately everybody wins. If we do nothing, membership drops like it has since I joined. Part of having a membership gives you perks to items. As good as the newsletter is (thank you Brian Glenn) it has little value in members outside the California area, declining membership-what’s the draw? Just my 5 cents (inflation). This is all meant with constructive criticism, not bashing anyone.
I thought .05 was just the CND USD exchange rate.. 😜
Yes.. as I stated.. if Curt could employ someone to keep it running in California.
Buck I accept what you say-Personally I would drop $500 into the business tomorrow (and with our exchange rate its currently for me $800) I've spent more that on the Tiger since I brought it 4 months ago - not to mention what I have spent on the Series V Alpine over 40+ years . But not everyone would be in a position or wish to do this. I just wonder if the buyer doesn't come from within us were will they come from ? -we are a small marque and hence a relatively small market which may deter investors
I suspect you are right . In the Early Ford Parts Supply business Macs one of the biggest was brought out by Ecklers and it seems to have been a disaster all round -a big company who approached selling parts like they were selling canned goods . They got rid of all the experienced staff and employed people who probably couldn't change a tire or drive a stick shift .
Perhaps re-read Bucks post as to where other suppliers get their parts and how the loss of the source supplier might impact the range and viability of others ...
The facts are there is a thing called "cooperation" thru an association with others. In other words Rick has become the "go to guy" over the years. He has done the leg work with suppliers and manufacturers and spear headed getting parts secured. The parts business was something he was able to devote time to since his other endeavors probably allowed him to do this. If folks were aware or knew the other suppliers other than an internet connection or knew the way the retail or supplier world works, the system would be easier to understand. Over the years others here in the states had full time jobs with the Beam business being what could be called a "hobby" business. I'm still doing something similar so I know how it works. My business is associated with 48 other distributors around the U.S. that have a buying association with one buyer in Colorado doing the leg work, buying and setting up supply channels. There's no reason Rick can't continue to do the leg work and continue to do something similar if he wants to. The Sunbeam parts world hasn't yet ended.
