Tom, Brian & Sean,
Tom Roberts wrote on Mar 23
rd, 2020 at 9:13am:
As I mentioned in the last Therapy, Autonerdz is experiencing the perfect shit storm.
Although not eloquent, the description could not more accurately describe each of our lives today.
Tom Roberts wrote on Mar 23
rd, 2020 at 9:13am:
The Covid-19 pandemic has resulted in such major disruptions to our business and the supply chain that we can no longer continue as we have for the last 20 years. As you know, being the only PicoScope automotive specialists, the revenue that keeps the wheels turning comes entirely from sales of PicoScope kits and related accessories. We have no sponsors and our site has been ad free by design so our customers have a pleasant experience. This has worked very well for all of us until now. No one could have anticipated this, much less planned for it. All of us are at the mercy of circumstances beyond our control.
Holy unforeseen circumstances, Batman!
Tom Roberts wrote on Mar 23
rd, 2020 at 9:13am:
In addition, as I approached retirement age, I had been searching for someone to take my place, bring new energy to Autonerdz and take it to the next level. After years of working on different opportunities for this that have presented themselves, none of them have been successful. Each one failed for one reason or another. In some cases, the efforts were sabotaged, and others were just not meant to be. The time to accomplish this has run out. I must retire. Let’s just say doctor’s orders.
It really is of no comfort but I too am acutely aware of "forced medical retirement", so I'm calling mine a "sabbatical", insanely believing I might be able to return to the industry in some capacity. I may only fooling myself, I know.
Tom Roberts wrote on Mar 23
rd, 2020 at 9:13am:
So, it is what it is and reality bites.
Ain't THAT the truth! These were the cards that we are dealt. Let's play poker! (i.e. - Let's have a NEW beginning).
Tom Roberts wrote on Mar 23
rd, 2020 at 9:13am:
Autonerdz, as a business, cannot ride these storms and come out on the other side; and the way this pandemic has disrupted everything, someone would have to be insane (in my opinion) to assume the business.
So, the Autonerdz office will soon be permanently closed. This means that much of the support by me and our staff that has spoiled all of you, will cease. I am as disappointed and angry about this, as I am sure you are. But anger is futile as it solves nothing.
... but suppressing a natural response isn't healthy either. It feels like a family member has passed. It causes memories to flood your mind. It results in an inability to focus. So anger is a natural way to respond to the out-of-our-control life events. Please don't suppress it completely.
Tom Roberts wrote on Mar 23
rd, 2020 at 9:13am:
So what will remain? For now, I would like to preserve the largest PicoScope automotive knowledge base in the world. The tutorials, The Autonerdz Community Forums, our cloud, the Group Therapy volumes, and other online resources we have built over the last two decades. While these resources do not cost as much to maintain as an office and a staff, they are not free to maintain. Since we will have no revenue from sales, we will be dependent on willing donors to fund these resources. More on that later.
No one can place a value on those resources. I have an idea that might help in a small, personal, way. Please e-mail or message me.
Tom Roberts wrote on Mar 23
rd, 2020 at 9:13am:
I wanted to announce this to our Picogroup members first so that you are not blindsided. We still have some stock left and some great deals for you while it lasts, so you get first dibs. We will not be restocking and the only things left in the supply pipeline are a few more WPS kits that will arrive at some unknown time. All remaining open orders are being fulfilled before the office closes. After that, shipping will happen when I pop in from time to time.
Let me close by thanking all of our loyal Picogroup members who have supported us all these years. It’s been quite a ride and I am so thankful for the experience and the opportunity to have met so many great folks both in person and virtually. I am blessed to be able to call many of you my friends.
It was an
honor
to be affiliated with Autonerdz for the few years I was able to do so. Autonerdz presented to the automotive industry an unmatched level of professionalism. I'm thankful and blessed too.
Tom Roberts wrote on Mar 23
rd, 2020 at 9:13am:
Also thanks to Pico for making such a great product!
Take care of yourselves, and each other; be safe and stay healthy
Best wishes to you (collectively) as well!
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