Just saw this on the EV list and thought I would post it here.

I think I know why this has happened.

It is really the same path that we have been on for the last several
years.  Going from a repair shop/parts store, to a restoration shop/parts
store (where we are now), to an accessories developer/parts store (they
will probably eventually stop selling the repair parts at some point and
only supply the accessories/Westy parts which would be very ironic as that
is how the whole business started back in the day).

It really just comes down to making the most money with your time, with the
least headaches.  Developing cool accessories that aren't mission critical
is a great way to make a ton of money (high mark up) while avoiding the
thing that is the most soul destroying in the Vanagon world (dealing with
broken down vans on trips).   I had lots of great experiences with doing
repairs for customers over the years, however one bad experience (with an
unreasonable customer, or someone who seems to be jinxed for some reason)
overshadows your life until you get it resolved.  Getting a phone message
at 10 o'clock at night on a Saturday from a customer broken down in the
middle of nowhere and there is nothing you can do for them until Monday
will wreck your weekend if you actually care (which I do).  Getting away
from that wheel of pain has helped me enjoy servicing the Vanagon world
again and we are actually making the same or even a little more money.  I
have just dipped my toe into the restoration and sales world and so far
that is going well.  However eventually, I will use that money to expand
the accessories that we sell, because that is really where the money is
right now.  People just can't get enough stuff to bolt and strap onto their
vans.  I tried to buck the trend for a while but if you can't beat em, join
em.

Just my thoughts on this.

--
Thanks,
Ken Wilford
John 3:16
www.vanagain.com