Lakeline Watersports Closing Retail Front

Yes, I know, quite a contrast from my last post. I'll keep it short.

As you know, I have been working very hard at making Lakeline Watersports a success. When I first started, things moved faster than I ever expected and before I knew it, I had sold over a hundred kayaks! Business was good so I decided to expand by opening a "real" retail storefront.

Well, I had no idea that our economy was on the verge of collapsing. While signs point to an upswing, times are still tough for many including Lakeline Watersports. While I have done everything I could possibly do to avoid this scenario, I have no choice but to close the doors to our store.

Many questions are lingering and since many of you have asked here are some answers:

When will you officially close the doors to the retail shop?
My lease expires on October 31st, 2009. The retail shop will officially close October 3rd, 2009.

Will you keep the online store open?
YES but things may change. However, I will more than likely only sell accessories, as boat manufacturers require for you to have a retail front, which I won't have anymore. I am discussing the possibility to continue boat sales with a couple of manufacturers that are okay with online only stores but more on all this later.

Are you discounting products in order to clear out inventory?
YES! I will detail some great discounts on our home page within a week. However you will have to come by the store, email or call me (1-800-832-1944) directly to discuss discounts on certain brands.

Are you selling fixtures, kayak stands, etc., too?
YES! Again, I will detail these items for sale on our home page.

Can you still order boats?
YES! However, I will do so on a limited and prepaid basis. I am technically an authorized dealer through December 31st for most if not all the brands that I sell. (UPDATE - WE ARE NO LONGER ORDERING NEW BOATS BY EMOTION KAYAKS, NATIVE WATERCRAFT OR HERITAGE KAYAKS)

Will the Native Owner's Group still be operated?
YES! I will continue to keep it alive and well through December 31st but I am currently negotiating with other dealers to take ownership in order to keep it running and updated. The new owner will be authorized by Native and of course approved by me. (UPDATE - GET:OUTDOORS WILL NOW OPERATE THE SITE - VISIT LWNOG.COM FOR DETAILS)

This has to be one of the toughest decisions I have ever had to make but feel confident that I am doing the right thing especially for the financial protection of my family and their future.

Please know that I am truly appreciative to all my customers, friends, partners, suppliers, supporters and of course my family for all that you have done to make this dream a reality. I hope to continue doing business with you in the near future. If things get better soon, we may reinstate the retail front but until then, happy paddling!

Roland "Bones" Jimenez