All Star Rods - Now Shakespeare

I broke the front section of an All Star rod - good rod, probably $100 -
$125 or thereabouts. In the past I have been able to go to the factory
here in Houston and get immediate service. All Star had been fantastic
for years, either replacing the item at minimal or no cost or repairing
it for a very reasonable price.

I went by their site today and it is closed with a sign showing a 1.800
number. I called it. It is a Shakespeare service number, as
Shakespeare bought All Star a few months back. I explained the problem
and was told I'd have to go back thru the store where I bought the rod
to get any service, warranty or otherwise. I asked if I could at least
buy a replacement section, directly. I was told, in no uncertain terms,
that Shakespeare did not provide that service.

When I explained that I had been a big fan of All Star because of their
great products and fantastic service, the lady commented, "That's the
reason they aren't in business anymore.".

I haven't had any dealings with Shakespeare or bought any Shakespeare
products for a bunch of years because this is the same experience I had
with them "back when" - their service was LOUSY then and doesn't appear
to have changed.

Castaway, you just gained a customer.

BTW, Shakespeare also owns Pfleuger (sp ??), so I'll be avoiding them,
too.

Anyone else had this kind of experience with Shakespeare?

Glen