Good Lord people are really kicking JJP after TPF. I think they just have one issue. Marketing.
Personally, I think the JJP teams' issue is communication and marketing. I think the business model of build a few machines, stop, then re-release with another special edition art package/colour down the road is a great idea. They need to embrace this and own it. This is their business model and how they make machines.
I mean making shorter runs manages the business risk and keeps the line going. Stern is a powerhouse and can pivot from project to project and often use similar mechs from machine to machine. JJP doesn't have that luxury.
Spooky makes 500 machines and (rightfully so) is hailed as a champion start up. JJP makes 200-500 YBRs and we all ship dog crap in boxes to New Jersey... Why?
Where JJP falls flat is on the delivery of their message and the marketing of their ideas. JJP says they are "making 200 this year and maybe more". But all the distributors know they plan on making 500 and tell everyone on the show floor their plans... That doesn't create good will. I mean just come out and say that, if there is demand we will make up to 500.
Everyone is hung up on the number of machines? JJP should just stop calling them Limited Editions if they aren't limited, call them something else. Embrace it.
JJP should just come out and say, "there isn't demand for Pirate right now, may be there will be in the future. We will make another special run then."
$11,500 USD is too much for me, hell $7,500 USD is too much. So I just move on, I don't lose sleep over it. It's OK if you wanted a cheaper WOZ so you could buy one but it didn't happen. I was hoping for a cheaper one and I'm disappointed but I haven't died inside.
Time will tell if affluent folks (who aren't on pinside) buy YBR. If I was a betting man, I'd say they sell them all and make another run next year and sell them out too. JJP isn't a pinball charity, its a business.
The yellow is hideous...
Give JJP a break, you can tell from their demeanor at TPF they knew they would be kicked in the groin all week and they have been. Hold them accountable but don't abuse they poor fellas.
New York, NY
