CompuServe Messages

The number of new messages around this forum is making keeping track of new developments difficult. I propose we establish this thread to contain:- 1. News that has been confirmed from a reliable source. 2. Nothing else. 3. No additional comments. To kick things off, I spoke with Electronic Design today and confirmed the information they gave me with other Amiga product distributors in Europe. The information is first hand from Commodore Germany's Marketing Director, and Managing Director – I got the same message from several reliable sources. They all said that according to Commodore Germany, an Asian or Japanese company is in the throws of finalising arrangements to buy seven companies, including Commodore/Amiga U.K, Commodore Germany, Italy, and Canada. Commodore Germany are saying the transaction should be finalised within 10 days. They were not able to name the company. Some sources are saying Commodore Asia/Pacific management has suggested staff look for other work. They are almost completely out of stock, and appear to be unlikely to ride out the time between now and when any official announcements are made. Additionally, Compu-Aid, the company responsible for supplying spare parts and warranty support in Australia have been hurt by the collapse of a major retail chain in Australia (Brashes) and it is possible they may face closure. The Amiga situation downunder is poor. Confidence amongst dealers is fair. I also rang Commodore Business Machines West Chester number and tried to speak with Hock Tan. Instead of being transferred to his number, my call was taken by a security person who said something about another office closing, and that this office would also be closed within a couple of days. To make matters worse he said "Commodore is history". Commodore U.K's M.D. was too busy to accept calls, but a local software publisher said consumer confidence was excellent (most are not aware what is now happening) and dealer confidence was still very strong despite their knowledge of Commodore's problems. A GVP marketing person I spoke to also sounded optimistic when I spoke to him directly yesterday. Regards, Andrew Farrell Editor, Australian Amiga Review