I could care less about the Fender "high rollers" clubs. You know why? Because a) the expenses for a few small "high bucks" showrooms throughout the world probably doesn't cost a whole heck of a lot at all and b) you can bet your dollars-for-donuts that FMIC is tracking these establishments' revenues and expenses. i.e., In and of themselves, are they paying for themselves? If there's no profit, then they won't be successful and will be shut down.
In sum, they're probably an "experiment". If they bring more high bucks artist and/or "Franky" and "Blacky"-league type customers in to lay down big coin, then great. And, if they don't, you should expect FMIC to shut them down in a year or two becaause they're unsuccessful.
It's positively goofy to assume that the price increases on USA and custom shop instruments are paying for these high roller outfits. If anything, it's neutral or just the opposite. i.e., The mucho dineros that the high rollers are paying are padding FMIC's bottom line and, in turn, are subsidizing "regular" production costs.
At then end of the day, this stuff is just a lightning rod for "hate the rich" attitudes. Which is silly. Let the wealthy spend their money on whatever they want. They earned it, and have the right to do so. And I hold FMIC (...or any other company for that matter) no ill will for trying to cater to different market niches - both high rollers and us "regular" folks - and make some more money there. That's what successful companies are supposed to do.
In sum, they're probably an "experiment". If they bring more high bucks artist and/or "Franky" and "Blacky"-league type customers in to lay down big coin, then great. And, if they don't, you should expect FMIC to shut them down in a year or two becaause they're unsuccessful.
It's positively goofy to assume that the price increases on USA and custom shop instruments are paying for these high roller outfits. If anything, it's neutral or just the opposite. i.e., The mucho dineros that the high rollers are paying are padding FMIC's bottom line and, in turn, are subsidizing "regular" production costs.
At then end of the day, this stuff is just a lightning rod for "hate the rich" attitudes. Which is silly. Let the wealthy spend their money on whatever they want. They earned it, and have the right to do so. And I hold FMIC (...or any other company for that matter) no ill will for trying to cater to different market niches - both high rollers and us "regular" folks - and make some more money there. That's what successful companies are supposed to do.
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