Aquatic Now end UK distribution of Apex
Apex availability has been up in the air for a while, much to the frustration of UK reefkeepers and the stores who supply them. But now, we officially no why:
“It is with regret that we inform you that Aquatic Now has made the decision to no longer distribute and are unable to support Neptune Systems products.” Said AN Sales Manager Craig Timms.
“This is a heartfelt decision as we had originally wanted to continue to support and sell the brand but new, and unrealistic trade terms which we believe to be in contravention to European anti-competitive laws have been placed in our path by Neptune Systems.”
“Whilst supply has not officially been stopped by Neptune Systems, despite many attempts to solicit a response from Neptune Systems regarding their demands and the status of previously placed orders we have not been able to communicate with them.”
“This is why we sadly haven’t been able to fulfil your orders recently. We have had no official communication with them in several months, despite our best efforts. As a result of this behaviour and their demands we have made the decision to no longer distribute the brand.”
“Whilst we have some remaining stock, we will continue to sell it until this is gone. We assume Neptune Systems will appoint a new distributor or continue to sell directly to the public via their EU web store.”
“What direction they will take is not clear to us so we are unable to comment on where you will be able to buy their products. With regards to support as you will know Neptune operate an RMA returns system. We have never been supplied warranty stock so we’re unable to help despite wanting to be able to.”
“With regards to this returns system – we are hearing reports from UK retailers that Neptune are sending stock directly to them to support them or directing them to get support from their Dutch distributor Dejong Marinelife. We feel it is best that you contact Neptune directly for assistance as we do not know what their official position is with this regards.”
Disappointing
This is disappointing news, first and foremost for those end-users who have Apex on order, and because from the little we know about it, the Apex Trident intelligent doser looks amazing yet is still to arrive on UK shores. We also looked forward to any Seneye/Apex cross-pollination that may have occurred through joint distribution by new company Aquatic Now.
Apex has a lot to offer, and not only for the marine market as control freaks in freshwater and pond would love some of its monitoring features, but it seems supply will be somewhat stifled, at least in the short term, until another UK distributor has been appointed.
