We've been getting some emails and phonecalls about whether we are at CHA this year. We're not. It felt strange yesterday, knowing that it was Day 1 of the winter show, and I was here in BC and not in Anaheim, amidst the crowds. Or the supposed crowds, I guess.
We're not there for so many reasons. The first being, the loss of our entire computer systems which meant we lost a lot of our programs, files, etc etc etc etc etc - much more than I can even explain. We have some on backup, and the rest has been sent to the computer doctors who hopefully, through a miracle, fix everything back up. We spent all of December buying new computers, setting things back to where we could function and at least take/ship orders but of course that put us way behind. It was hoped that we could get back to a place where we could have stuff ready for the show, but it became obvious very quickly that we could not, so the decision of not to attend CHA was made.
For some reason our paper printing prices have gone up significantly as well. This made the decision not to attend CHA much easier - and so we are now looking for new printers.
The economy. What is there to say? We figured there would be less attendees at the show this year (and from all reports I've heard, the attendance is definitely down). What we spend vs what we would get in orders did not translate into good numbers - so that was another reason.
The roof. Right now there are roofers tearing up the roof and putting a new one in place. Thank you God, for a new roof. But did it have to cost that much? Oh well. Thank you, anyway.
Our business plan: there seems to be a gamut of companies and kit clubs who are offering clear stamps, so we have to figure out ways to keep FontWerks fresh, different, engaging. We are working on that now, and will have new options for retail/kit/enduser customers alike. Like custom printing and diecutting? We'll have that. Vinyl? Check. Custom stickers on a small scale? You betcha. Slowly but surely we will get all these systems in place and get it all out to you.
So, where are we now? We do have some new releases to get out, and I'm thinking we will have it out next week sometime to our retailers. We are going to take it slow and easy and ride out this downturn, with your help and support. We will do what we can. We will trust in God, we will keep on keepin' on and enjoying this industry and cheering on our friends within the industry. We will cry when we see big and small companies fail. We will be happy for those who prevail. We will work with those who are working hard to keep on working. (Gosh, I feel like I am giving an Obama-esque speech, lol).
We are still here, we have a few things planned up our sleeves. Just have to get back on track a little and we will be back out there with you with more great designs and products! Thanks for checking in with us and stay tuned.
I miss us. :( Can't wait to see the new stuff, KMS. I know it will be brilliant.
Posted by: laura | January 26, 2009 at 11:17 AM
It sounds like you have some great things up your sleeves! I can hardly wait to see it all!
Posted by: Cate | January 26, 2009 at 05:05 PM
Don't worry, lots of people didn't go to CHA. Save up your energy for Orlando!
Posted by: Veronica Hugger | January 28, 2009 at 07:32 AM
You are smart woman! :) I too can't wait to see the new stuff, and how your company will evolve. And oh yes, the new roofs. Ouch. We had one put in this summer, along with new siding. So needed and yet so painful!
Posted by: Linda Barber | January 30, 2009 at 07:28 AM
I missed seeing you at the show Kah-Mei.
It's a tough time for the industry, and you weren't alone in sitting this one out.
Hope we can catch up soon!
Posted by: Carolyn Peeler | January 31, 2009 at 08:52 PM
i think you made a clever decision!! *hugs*
Posted by: sasha farina | February 01, 2009 at 04:31 AM
You know I love my Fontwerks to death! I'll be checking back often to see the new stuff :)
Stay strong. Your many, many fans miss you. A lot!!!
Posted by: Anilu Magloire | February 01, 2009 at 02:24 PM
I'm still rooting for you, and hoping for the best!
Posted by: Jill | February 04, 2009 at 09:55 PM
Can't wait to see what you come up with! Love your products!
Posted by: Kelli | February 11, 2009 at 09:33 AM
When will you ship out the products ordered on your 30% sale?
Posted by: Michelle OKeefe | February 17, 2009 at 03:26 PM
would love to see another update- look forward to getting a bit of a 'scoop' from you as I'm a retail store owner who likes to support Canadian companies ;) I wish you well though & look forward to all that's new!
Posted by: ms.espresso | April 10, 2009 at 01:19 AM
*cough*cough*cough* :D :D *giggles*giggles*
Posted by: sasha farina | April 26, 2009 at 04:40 AM
miss you! :)
Posted by: sara | April 29, 2009 at 11:27 AM