Sad day for ShopSmith

[Gordon]

Just received the following email from ShopSmith:

 

After more than 70 years of serving makers, builders, and woodworking enthusiasts, Shopsmith has unfortunately reached the difficult decision to suspend operations immediately.

Unless new ownership emerges, this iconic American brand will soon be dissolved. Our lender is preparing to take possession of and liquidate the company’s assets – a move that would dismantle the brand and close a long chapter in American woodworking history.

But it doesn’t have to end this way.

A Unique Opportunity: 
NOW is the time to act. We are looking for a buyer who is interested in acquiring Shopsmith’s assets, brand, and loyal customer base. With the right leadership and resources, Shopsmith can thrive again to continue its legacy of delivering compact, multi-functional, precision woodworking equipment trusted by generations.

Over the last two years, we've rebuilt the supply chain, restored manufacturing, and confirmed what our community already knows: Shopsmith products remain unmatched in their value and versatility. What we lacked was the time and resources to scale awareness and grow our loyal user-base.

For a buyer who understands the power of this brand, the path is open to carry Shopsmith forward to a new generation of makers and entrepreneurs.

During this time, we will continue to process outstanding orders and will communicate shipping details when they are available.

Thank you to our community, customers, and partners for your decades of support. It has been an honor to serve you.

– The Shopsmith Team

[Grandpadave52]

Sadly, a sign of the times we live in. Unfortunately we live in a "throw away" society (IKEA comes to mind), lack of a couple generations willing to get their hands dirty or even the desire to do so. Numerous other factors as well; JMHO.

[kmealy]

There are a lot of competitive brands these days.   Way-back, you could get Craftsman from Sears and Delta/Rockwell from other independent suppliers or some hardware stores.  Big box stores like Lowe's, Home Depot, Menards, and even Wal*mart and Amazon did not exist.   So Shopsmith set up demos at fairs, shopping malls, etc.  You could buy there and have delivered or picked up in Dayton.

[John Morris]

Very sad, truly.

[kmealy]

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xk3yHPiwHyk

 

[kmealy]

 

[kmealy]

 

[John Morris]

I've seen that last video Keith, know a little about the guy, I think he's wishful thinking.

[kmealy]

https://www.popularwoodworking.com/editors-blog/end-of-an-era-2/