Shopping for a new LBS

[zoom-zoom]

Never thought this would happen. Our shop buddy was partner in a shop since it was founded in the late '80s. Apparently things went south between him and the wealthy dude who was primary owner (but took no active role in management). MC has always been the face, heart, and soul of the business. He's also one of the national JDRF coaches and our local team coach. This bike shop supplied bike room services for most of the JDRF rides in recent years.

We're really bummed. This shop was a social hangout for many of us. With MC no longer at the helm there are a TON of us looking for a new LBS home. We feel a little lost.

[zoom-zoom]

More ugly details coming to light...appears that the business manager--who he hired--likely had a hand in edging him out. BM had originally started PT, then lost his other PT job. MC was more of a sales mgr., but there wasn't room for two FT managers.

[Kerry1976]

Oh my gosh. I have heard such good things from you and your DH about this shop. They have been your second family. I am so very sorry. That is really wrong.

[zoom-zoom]

We really no longer even have reason to visit that community an hour away (except for the brewpub across the street).

[thekarens]

That sucks! I know if the manager of my lbs left I'd be going elsewhere. He makes the shop for me.

[Becky]

I'm sorry, Zoom. I can only imagine how upset I'd feel if my LBS changed like that.

[Geonz]

Ouch, ouch, ouch. It just stinks when somebody does crafty and nasty things to get ahead and "wins" ... but often other opportunities show themselves and I'm hoping!

[zoom-zoom]

OMG...those @$$h*les fired their primary mechanic, now--who is also a dear friend and the best damned wrench we know. BEYOND THE PALE!!! I hope they are out of business within a year.

[Becky]

That stinks! Is it time for MC and the head mechanic to open their own shop?

[zoom-zoom]

That stinks! Is it time for MC and the head mechanic to open their own shop?

Boy, that would be something awesome. Neither of them has the finances to do it, though. I'm guessing it would be really tough for them to get business loans.