Thanks Everyone...

[Blue World Aquariums]

This is harsh. OC has been a pioneering force for aquaculture in Canada. This industry is highly competitive, and it would be foolish to dismiss them as anything less than competition. But I am torn between the loss of competition, and the loss of what is very likely the future of the industry (my industry). If these people are shut down because of their efforts to farm captive corals, it does not bode well for the hobby (and by the same hand...our industry). The future of the hobby and industry is aquaculture. End of story. The time will come when our imports are restricted. The reasons are debatable, but the time will come. It's quite sad that the most environmentally conscious are the first to suffer. It's not cheap to farm corals, breed fish, and support regulated collection. I have had respect for OC since we started because of their progressive attitude. It is truly sad to see the future of our hobby suffering so badly...

[BlueWorldAquatic]

Guys/Gals, keep this in proper context. They are leaving as a sponsor, not going out of business. Letting someone push you to quit is just not the way to leave.

I have to admit, Canreef is a great forum, especially in Alberta & BC, look at the locations of most of the members and regional posts. The members know which sponsors care, and which sponsors use this as part of their advertising budget. The posts show it all.

I can hardly go a day at the store without a CanReef member coming in.

It is and will be a large part of our business' but not all of it.

It is unfortunate the OTHER competitors need to resort to "low blows" or starting rumors, but you know what? Who cares, let the customer decide. They are the only opinions that count.

Ken - BWA

[michika]

This is very unfortunate. While I don't know the backstory, I know I'll miss the great service I've received from Oceanic over the years. The only reason I ever started shopping at Oceanic in the first place was because of their affiliation and posts on Canreef.

[lastlight]

The service will still be there I imagine they'll have their own forum up on their site eventually if they do cease sponsorship. They're not going anywhere!

[Blue World Aquariums]

In hindsight, my original post was misplaced and over-dramatic. All the best, OC.

[SeaHorse_Fanatic]

Paul & the rest of the OC crew,

Always been & always will be a pleasure doing business with you and coming out to the Valley for a nice drive, steak & prawn dinner (@ the local pub) and a great visit at OC.

I've dealt with Paul for many years & always found him to be a nice, genuine guy. Have also known Eugene since he first started in this hobby & he's also been a great guy to know & deal with.

I'm sure that whatever the final decision, whether to stay or go, their brand of ultra customer service will help OC grow, even thrive, in this very competitive business.

To the ones who helped drive away a great vendor/sponsor, karma is a b!tch

[wickedfrags]

Unfortunate you are leaving the board, hopefully you choose to stay. You clearly provide good service and contribute some great photographs of your livestock.

That being said, I would historically be one of those to give you a hard time about some of your marketing strategies (call me a consumer advocate, or whatever other term makes sense).

As dealing with feedback can take way to much time for a small business, many vendors simply post pics and say call the store for additional info. Perhaps that is approach that will work in the future. The serious buyers always show up or call.