Thanks for the info, 'our sponsors' are happy with the ones sourced by MAF then?
Well as far as I know some might have used them in the past so I'd say that they must be happy.
I am very happy that things have cleared now.
As the lack of real info like names of motor factors , plus the absurd long time since the start of the order (18 months) gave room to all kind of possible explanations, also the unpleasant ones.
Would you have believed in a positive outcome yourself if you did not have info on it other than announcements that it will be all solved some time?
After a year I lost confidence, but I guess I was wrong.
And to be honest, yes I made some allegations. But as you were absent from the forum since may last year, it was a little difficult having a direct conversation.
But all's well that ends well. Too bad there are no discs, but at least we can try elsewhere when refunded. Looking forward to your message, and thank you for your time and trouble.
Whoever they are, can you ask them to be able to take PayPal for their payments? Wiring money to Europe from U.S. banks has gotten to be a major hassle. The process now takes several days, fax transmissions (which most people don't have) and other safeguards. Not convenient at all; not mandatory of course, but for U.S. purchasers PayPal is simple and painless. If it costs a bit more, add it to the price. Usually its worth it.
Lee...
UPDATE
I’m pleased to tell you that I have an update. I’m less pleased to tell you that the 3[SUP]rd[/SUP] batch is not going to materialise and that everyone who placed an order and paid for their discs will be receiving a full refund.
I’m not going to go into great detail on an open forum, but will provide the abridged version of events:
2 batches of high quality brake discs have been manufactured and delivered around the globe. There have been no complaints or returns for these discs; all feedback from owners and Maserati independents who have inspected and fitted these discs has been extremely positive.
I’m aware of the many opinions of those who believe the process was flawed, inadequate etc. All I can say is that I am no professional in this area, just an enthusiast and owner who was determined to provide access to a quality product at a sensible price. I have made no personal gain from the group buys. My time was freely given throughout the process, all the way up to packaging the discs myself for distribution. I have had some extremely unpleasant, untrue allegations made about me since the 3[SUP]rd[/SUP] batch was announced – sadly none were directly to me, all behind my back.
The manufacturer does not deal directly with any party other than a motor factor. The contact I had at the manufacturer has unfortunately passed away due to a terminal illness. The motor factor always had to be paid in full up front (they would not risk being left with a stock of discs for a specific car). The money was collected from all forum orders and paid in in the usual way. The order is a relatively small batch when compared to the size of the manufacturer, so would always be subject to some movement in delivery dates. I was in regular contact and only after some time became aware of delays. Lots of excuses were made, to the point that replies became ever more scarce. I have chased either the order or the return of the monies paid for some considerable time and with considerable patience. Many discussions have taken place with forum representatives about which approach to take, legal advice has also been sought. Due to the power of the forum and certain significant members, the funds are now in place to provide a full refund to everyone who placed an order in the 3[SUP]rd[/SUP] batch. I will be in contact with all of those who have monies owed within the next 2 weeks to make arrangements to send refunds.
I'm really sorry the 3rd batch will not be delivered via the previous channels and thank all of those concerned for their patience.
Not a problem.
UPDATE
We have formulated the list and are arranging funds, all will be contacted by your registered SM email address and asked for refund method then it will be paid.
Anyone who does not respond will then be send a follow up via PM.
If you still do not respond we will ring fence your funds for 6 months then if no contact has been made we will assume you do not want it back and the refund will be cancelled and the funds revoked and donated to the SM charity: BCRT (Bone Cancer Research Trust)
there is no chance of getting a set of brake discs ?
What about those of us who bought another members allocation directly from them? I bought Luna06's and paid him directly.
I gave my spare set from the previous group buy to fernandoisfasterthanyou, will you be refunding him or me tks. I know he sent Maf a note confirming this.
If it’s a problem then refund him directly as he’s mate of mine.
If anyone urgently needs a set of new front discs from the earlier group buys, I have some I no longer require.
Cost price plus delivery (they are heavy!) or pickup in West Sussex. PM me if interested.
We are already aware of this and you, the person who took over the purchase will be contacted and receive the refund. MarkP has already been paid for his taking of another members place and you, Jasst are the only other member who did this and are on the list accordingly.