There are indeed many people on forums who chose to be there, because they have an interest, or investment to protect and presumably, they feel security, as being part of the " club " so to speak.
I was banned from C/T some time ago and can't even remember, why, but it would be for challenging something.
What I notice is that a number of people are moderators on more than one site, something I find a bit surprising, particularly when they have a financial interest in one.
There is a greater freedom on here and Mike Boxall clearly has great confidence in himself and his business, unlike others, who display paranoia and fear.
Most of the " INNOVATIONS " or " NEW TECHNOLOGIES " are nothing of the sort.
The products being marketed, are imported and in some cases modified, then agressively marketed.........
Ashbys have been doing it for years, without the marketing, likewise, One Step and the Recoil
What has been done and done extremely well, is a number of marketing initiatives, but it's left a few people disillusioned, mainly due to the Tesco mentality of the principal.
Now......I should point out, that this is not a condemnation of an individual, or his business style, in fact I continue to praise his business ability and have suggested, before, that some might do well to emulate his marketing,
You will find total freedom to express your views and experiences on here and that is healthy, for the industry and for the bulk of the, mainly " one man band " operators who have no one to speak to, on a day to day basis, about there concerns and experiences.
I reckon this will lead to a better image and stronger industry, in time and any attempts to hi jack, should be jumped on, from a great height.
robbie