Bain Capital holds stock in all of them? I didn't know they were so strong in retail as opposed to production.
Yep....From Wikipedia:
On June 27, 2007, Guitar Center agreed to $1.9 billion buyout from Bain Capital, totaling $2.1 billion including debt. The deal was led by Goldman Sachs and amounted to a per-share price of $63, or a 26% premium on the June 26 closing price. The deal was approved by shareholders on September 18, 2007, and closed October 9, 2007.[8]
"Guitar Center is the largest chain of musical instrument retailers in the world[1] with over 200 locations[2] throughout the United States. Its headquarters is in Westlake Village, California.
Guitar Center's sister companies/subsidiaries incorporate Music & Arts, Musician's Friend, GuitarCenter.com, LMI, Giardinelli, Musician.com, Private Reserve Guitars, Woodwind and Brasswind and Harmony Central
In mid-2009 Guitar Center opened a rehearsal studio facility in Woodland Hills, California. The eight studios with full backline range in size from 350-550 square feet.
Guitar Center also hosts annual events such as the Drum Off, King of the Blues, contests, and artist appearances throughout the nation."
I think Bain Capital has been largely labeled as "job killers" largely for political spin. There are far more companies they have reorganized and saved than failed and closed. Just more political BS about "capitalism is evil."
I think the person who comes out as the biggest winner from this Presidential campaign is Mitt Romney's wife. After he's been coached and trained to finally come out of his quiet bubble and get more aggressive, his wife finally gets to switch out of 35 years of missionary position
***Man....This topic about Gibson Custom Colors sure has made some strange turns and weaves.....
Speaking of which...So, I'm thinking that the variances regarding painted neadstocks or black with just the rim painted must have been from orders of "custom color" or "custom color with matching headstock?" That seems to make sense. Or "custom color with a few beers for lunch," could also still be a possibility I guess?
Anyone here know any oldtimers who used to work at Gibson Kalamazoo back in the early 60s? I bought my black Les Paul Signature from one, who was later a repair guy in the area. I may reach out to him to see what he remembers.