IMO stern is following a straightforward path to sell the company. They are taking advantage of recent pricing increases , and at the same time, drastically reducing the cost of each pin . Stern has greater buying power than all other makers,
and for about $150/ pin , could produce a far superior product that would satisfy all markets. The choice to maximize
the short term profits/ pin, rather than spend a small cost/ pin to dominate all markets, reflects a pattern utilized by
all company’s seeking a buyer. I own 32 Sterns , and resent the rapid reduction in quality , regarding each new pin.