The future of GbL?

[Aussie]

Firstly, huge call out to those G&L employees directly impacted by developments at G&L. Truely sad to hear how this is playing out for you all, but pleased to hear that it sounds like you will all at least receive your entitlements - so many times employees are left not only seeking a new pathway but also out of pocket.

Secondly, also sad to hear what may be the fate of Mr Fender's last contribution to musicians and the musical community. Hopefully there will be some future for the brand - one that reflects and respects Mr Fender's spirit.

Of far lesser significance but of interest - given GbLDP is a company owned forum and a valuable source of infomation to the G&L Community, I'd be interested to hear what is being considered for this site, including the invaluable reference information contained in the forums and registry. Many years ago Brad graciously transferred the site to G&L. I would hope that some arrangements can be made to continue the site going forward (if the G&L community is so inclined). Although I've been somewhat inactive in recent years I would be happy to have a conversation with Craig and others about what arrangements and support might be required for the site to be revested back with the G&L community.

Cheers, Robbie

[sam]

Hey Robbie,

The status of GbL is definately on our minds, I agree and hope some form can be saved or resurrected.

[Expert_Fretwork]

It's over.

Official word from the McLarens is "we're killing the company and letting everyone go"

We all get a severance package but we have to sign a release that says we can't sue them later or join an active lawsuit ongoing from 2 previous employees for lost wages or something along those lines.

I still suspect it's been sold but they can't say anything about that yet.

[JagInTheBag]

I have been told directly that the G&L brand will continue. I also know that they were seeking investors to move the company out of California starting several years ago. Looks like they weathered the unfriendly business in CA to the bitter end. Can someone create a complete backup and archive of this site, come what may?

[adamdn]

Regarding this website, I'm not a frequent poster but I've gotten a lot of value from this place over the years. I too would like to see it continue in the hands of the community. But I guess that partially depends on if this site was part of the sale. If nothing else, it would be a huge shame for the registry to go away. I do recommend that someone get a backup ASAP to prepare for the worst.

I would be willing to throw my name in the ring to offer any help if needed around the future of the site. By day, I work in Information Technology, am well experienced in hosting sites, PHP, databases, etc... and would also be willing to host it on one of my servers if it ends up needing an interim home.


Adam

[Craig]

Hello all,

I have maintained this site for almost 25 years (Dave asked me to take the reins of this website on October 16, 2000).
I have just checked when the next monthly ISP payment is due and it is October 14th, so we should be up atleast until then.
I plan to continue maintaining this site until I hear from the new owners or when the ISP shuts us down, whichever comes first.

I am sadden by this happening to G&L and all the talented and dedicated employees who worked there. Back in 2005 I went through
this same experience of being laid off (after 17 years) when Oracle bought Sun Micosystems.

[patkz93]

Thanks for updating us Craig, and thank you for all of your hard work on the site over the years. You were one of the true backbones of this community.

Thankfully the site seems to have been archived fairly well on the wayback machine, so crucial information should continue to be accessible into the future.

[JagInTheBag]

@craig is is possible for us to assume to the responsibilities of hosting this cite, including keeping up with the payments for related fees? Who would we talk to about transferring the domain name ownership? I’m sure I’m not the only one that would like this forum to remain active and independent.

[CalicoSkies]

I've been seeing the posts on the various forums online, and it's sad. Most recently, I heard an employee has said G&L is being bought out, supposedly by Fender. I hope G&L's products are still sold in some form. In particular, I think G&L's pickups (Z-Coil in particular) and passive treble bass controls are great.

[Craig]

Like everyone else here, I am waiting for word on what will happen next. I have been instructed to "hang tight" (10/1).

Stay tuned.