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FGD135
Social climber
Colorado
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Topic Author's Original Post - Jan 7, 2013 - 12:53pm PT
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"Boulder's Neptune Mountaineering has been purchased by Backwoods, the Texas-based outdoor retail chain announced this morning.
The official acquisition date was Dec. 31 for an undisclosed amount.
Neptune Mountaineering -- which was first opened on April 1, 1973 -- will remain open through the transition and will keep its name. Located at 633 Broadway, the store specializes in climbing, camping and other outdoor gear."
http://www.dailycamera.com/news/ci_22324919
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fear
Ice climber
hartford, ct
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Arrrrgghhhhh
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Crimpergirl
Sport climber
Boulder, Colorado!
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Uh oh. Hopefully this means the needed improvements happen without losing the best parts of the place.
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SicMic
climber
two miles from Eldorado
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The end of an era. Be happy Gary and Bibi.
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SteveW
Trad climber
The state of confusion
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Wow. I hope Callie's right.
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Plaidman
Trad climber
South Slope of Mt. Tabor, Portland, Oregon, USA
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They had the best mountaineering museum.
Loved that place. Sorry to see it go.
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SteveW
Trad climber
The state of confusion
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Uh, JLP, what side of the bed did you wake up on?
The staff that I dealt with was always helpful, professional, knowledgeable
and good.
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maldaly
Trad climber
Boulder, CO
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JLP, thanks for bringing up and event that happened 6 years ago when George W Bush was still president.
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philo
Trad climber
Is that light the end of the tunnel or a train?
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Whoa, Wow and Wild.
I wonder if I get kept on as their sparkski?
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Crimpergirl
Sport climber
Boulder, Colorado!
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I admit, getting assistance has always been hit or miss when I go there.
I've gone in and waited to get help while watching staff chat and chat. I've left the store after some time when this happens (not that anyone seemed to care). Other times, I get hit at the door with helpfulness. Those instances are very much appreciated
Last year for the holidays, I went in looking for a particular rope to give BN. Neptunes did not have it in stock. I asked if they would order it (I like to support neighbors and independently owned shops) and I was told to just go to Bent Gate in Golden to buy it! I went home and ordered it online instead (which I could have easily done before I took the time and trouble to go to Neptunes).
IMO, difficulty getting help has too often been their greatest weakness. Still, I'd hate to see it go. I hope it doesn't become just another chain-type store.
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philo
Trad climber
Is that light the end of the tunnel or a train?
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Gary created a great 'legacy' store and since he doesn't wear any his shoes will be impossible to fill.
I do hope they keep the shop from becoming REI-lite.
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JLP
Social climber
The internet
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Mal - 6 years ago, a few people actually still shopped there.
I wish Bent Gate would have bought them, but these folks don't seem too bad:
http://www.backwoods.com/
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philo
Trad climber
Is that light the end of the tunnel or a train?
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Attitude adjustment on aisle 5 please.
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Bruce Morris
Social climber
Belmont, California
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Back in 1973, I remember going into Gary's shop somewhere east of downtown Boulder when Eric Aldrich worked in the back resoling shoes. Seemed like there was a direct direct connection up to Komito's shop up in Estes Park. Climbing was a lot smaller back then and everyone knew everyone else in town. Sort of a climbing information exchange hub.
Visited Neptune's again in 1996-97 when there were lectures and slides shows on a weekly or was it bi-weekly basis by visiting rock jocks and mountaineers?
This really will be the end of an era!
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Jaybro
Social climber
Wolf City, Wyoming
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This is not good. They did have their problems, but it would have been good to have bent gate buy them in stead of Walmart.
Ah well, a more generic experience, JLP will be happy.
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10b4me
Boulder climber
Somewhere on 395
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hope it works out for the best.
looking at the backwoods website, I was looking at the climbing section, I see that they carry five styles of five ten shoes, and four styles of La Sportiva.
they list an inventory of shoe sizes, and they don't have anything smaller than size 10. well there are a lot of big boys, and girls in texas.
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GDavis
Social climber
SOL CAL
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An end of an era. The first climbing shop I'd heard about before I'd seen it.
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Fritz
Trad climber
Choss Creek, ID
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This is absolutely terrible for one of ST's most valued members.
Those corporate folks from Backwoods are not going to let BrendaPuff and her slutvan continue to stay parked behind Neptunes.
Who is going to loan some parking space to BrendaPuff?
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Prod
Trad climber
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I wonder if the Museum pieces went with the sale?
No not Dan.... the gear.
Prod.
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Wade Icey
Trad climber
www.alohashirtrescue.com
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a piece of history is now...well...history.
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Mighty Hiker
climber
Vancouver, B.C.
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I always thought the name "Neptune" Mountaineering a bit ironic. Neptune Kayaks & Canoes seems more apropos.
(Yes, I know the former owner is named Neptune.)
Sort of on topic, a friend from Boulder once referred to those who work there as the Loony Neptoonies.
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10b4me
Boulder climber
Somewhere on 395
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what's next, Bass Pro Shops buys Black Diamond?
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goatboy smellz
climber
Nederland-GulfBreeze
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Ah well, a more generic experience, JLP will be happy.
Unpossible.
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Bldrjac
Ice climber
Boulder
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Pam here. Well, I always hate reading such negative comments about Neptune's, but I know there have always been people who have received less than great help, even me. Nevertheless, I worked there off and on for a total of about 9 years, starting in 1983 or so, and finishing my last stint in 1999, I think. Some of those employees AND customers became my dearest friends, especially our gang from the late '90's. I will always proudly consider myself a "Neptunian", and I tried REALLY hard to provide really positive service, even with difficult customers. Hard to be perfect, that's for sure, but I for one will put in a good word for Gary and the gang. I wish him the very best, and the store as well. It occupied an important part of Boulder climbing history, along with the BoMo and to a certain extent Mountain Sports, and will be missed. It sounds as though we won't notice HUGE physical changes, at least not for a while As Crimper said, hopefully the problem areas will be addressed, and the new changes will be positive.
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Crimpergirl
Sport climber
Boulder, Colorado!
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Well stated Pam. And I hope Gary got a pile of money (and time) from the deal so he can play to his heart's content!!
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Snowmassguy
Trad climber
Calirado
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I think I worked exclusively to spend my $$$ at Neptune back in the late 80's/early 90's. Used to love the slideshows as well as checking out the museum pieces. Thought they had a great climbing library that was especially helpful before the internet was a real option. Moved away and then back about 6 years ago. Was a bit disappointed to see a weaker store. Hopefully, the owners did well in the sale. Sad to see it go but probably was the time to move on.
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Bldrjac
Ice climber
Boulder
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Again, just to play devil's advocate,for as many disgruntled customers that there were (and in most cases probably for legitimite reasons), there were legions of dedicated customers that came to Neptune's from all over the world, specifically BECAUSE of the outstanding service they received, and they trusted the knowledge of the employees. I can cite plenty of times employees worked after hours mounting skis, or driving stuff over to customers' houses, and so on. During the "bolting wars" of the 1980's, it seemed each climber had their favorite store, and shredded the other store roundly for frequently the same reasons:attitude, poor customer service, etc. Just sayin'............:-)
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JLP
Social climber
The internet
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Their biggest flaw at the moment is not competing. If they had a better return policy, and matched Moosejaw's 15% for rock gym members - for example - I think that would go a LONG way. The vast majority in this modern day aren't going to make a major purchase without a guarantee and at least a token ~10% discount.
Neptune is the stingiest store you'll find anywhere when it comes to returns, too. Meanwhile, over at REI...just losing money like crazy with their return policies...
It also has to be in stock. I can order it myself, too, and save a trip after trying on something similar, thank you. Bent Gate just kicks their ass in this regard - the right brand, size and color - in the store.
The thing that gets me most about Neptune is they step back and say - hey, we can't afford a return policy and sales like our competition because we have to pay for all this expert service we're giving you - except the store is filled with people who don't serve you. I feel like a total chump to walk in there and pay full retail for that, especially given the other options.
They need to get over to the 29th Street area, as well.
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Toker Villain
Big Wall climber
Toquerville, Utah
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I first went to Boulder in 1970 when "the Hill" was still happening, and moved there in 1973 when as a student I got a coupon for $1 Eiger ovals at Neptune's (I think it was on 30th street).
When I did my first wall the following year I had bought a lot of hardware from Gary, who always gave great deals.
A nice guy, don't rag on him. Sad to hear that some of the employees had 'tude.
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bvb
Social climber
flagstaff arizona
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Oh well. Spend money there in the future and you'll be supporting business in what may well be the most bigoted, mysogynistic, gun-happy, flat-out deplorable states in the union
I'm a wild-eyed supporter of the Texas Succession Movement. Or Mexico can have it back. Whatevz.
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JLP
Social climber
The internet
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REI is profitable. You totally missed the sarcasm. Good return policy = comfort and satisfaction = return business = profit. Yes, that's pretty clear to just about everyone who shops.
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crunch
Social climber
CO
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I heard a few months ago that Gary was trying to sell his store. Sad to hear it's a done deal.
One of the last of the independent climbing stores. A big part of the Boulder community, with all the shows and events.
Shows? I've seen Layton Kor speak, Warren Harding, Joe Simpson, Pat Ament, Royal Robbins, Jim Donini.....best venue, by far.
I really like that the place is not some ultra-clean Foot-Locker or Nordstrom Rack clone, infested with over-attentive penguins with Mitt Romney smiles.
The staff are real people, real climbers, warts and all. Quite the line-up, too, over the years. Pamela, Jack Roberts, Dan Hare, Fred Knapp, Boulos Ayad, Ray Olson, Gary Ryan, David Light, Pete Steers, on and on....
Gary can be really generous, helping people out when he feels it's deserved. But he does this quietly, with no hype.
One criticism would be that for some time now they've been trying to not keep much in stock, especially the popular sizes of climbing shoes--they just order one or two pairs at a time. These may go straight out the door, then they don't have them in stock again for a week or more. The convenience of being able to try on different sizes of the same shoe is one feature of a bricks and mortar store that keeps people coming in. A minor quibble.
Neptunes roolz!
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hossjulia
Trad climber
Where the Hoback and the mighty Snake River meet
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Got to know Gary through Paul Ramer, plus I did a bunch of work on their rental fleet. Snowbird 2 years in a row as a guest, no way would I rag on Neptune's! Had a lot of fun with gear from there and going to slide shows.
Sure do miss that part of those days.
Not too surprised, I hope he got a bundle for it and gets to vacation for the duration.
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deuce4
climber
Hobart, Australia
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I hope Gary's museum will survive any makeovers intact--perhaps it could be moved to Golden AAC?
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donini
Trad climber
Ouray, Colorado
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I'm sure Gary got enough to keep himself in Lederhosen and Norwegian Sweaters for life. End of an era...there goes my discount and Malcolm's toe. Thursday night shows were a good place to catch up with people. Backwoods is a good outfit, possibly a little too conservative.....been around long enough to understand culture, altihough Neptune's defies definition.
edit: Came very, very close to dying today on a rap off of a nondescript route in Sedona.
Full TR to follow when I get back to Ouray.
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bergbryce
Mountain climber
California
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Whoa Donini!
Another historically great brick and mortar gear shop that failed to make the transition to the web folds. Not much surprise there. Gary and the shop had a good run.
I'm also concerned about the museum pieces in the store and hope they find a good home.
edited to add: except for the toe
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Fritz
Trad climber
Choss Creek, ID
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Donini! Re your comment;
edit: Came very, very close to dying today on a rap off of a nondescript route in Sedona.
Full TR to follow when I get back to Ouray.
A lot of us know how close that must have been.
Sluuup! Here's to you cheating death a great-while longer!
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little Z
Trad climber
un cafetal en Naranjo
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...Malcolm's Toe? what is that all about?
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donini
Trad climber
Ouray, Colorado
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Malcolm and I had a bit of an epic on Thunder Mountain in Alaska in 1999. The toe, nicely preserved in formaldehyde, was Malcolm's gift to the Neptune Museum to commemorate the event.
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Toker Villain
Big Wall climber
Toquerville, Utah
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Well that is a pretty gross thing to display, but probably not as ugly as your underwear after that sling failed today.
;/
I contributed a very strange thick spined euro D biner with a non-latching gate to that collection.
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donini
Trad climber
Ouray, Colorado
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Ron...I only wear underware when in something shorter than Bermuda Shorts.
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klk
Trad climber
cali
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tmi donini.
although i guess ron started it by speculating about yr lingerie.
i've only been in neptune's a handful of times, but had a good experience each time. how many small indies from that era are still in business? marmot was the last one in the bay area.
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Brokedownclimber
Trad climber
Douglas, WY
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Yikes, Jim! You are supposed to be catching up with me in years, not rapping off the end of a rope.
Rodger
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Toker Villain
Big Wall climber
Toquerville, Utah
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He didn't rap off the end. (wrong Jim)
Anchor failure, Jim is just too trusting a fellow. Thats why he doesn't pack a gun.
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SicMic
climber
two miles from Eldorado
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That toe was in a jar in the back by the scab collection. Gross, but funny.
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bhilden
Trad climber
Mountain View, CA
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If you are going to Neptunes soley to get the best price on your next piece of climbing gear than you are missing the point of Neptunes. Lots of very cool exhibits of climbing history(disclaimer, some of my stuff is in there as well) and a huge selection of the best gear. And then there were the Thursday night shows which brought in a heterogenous mix of all that was the outdoors. Gary was the man. Now he is the man with a lot more free time.
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skywalker
climber
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I loved going to Neptune's. I'd go on a rainy day and sit on the couch and read books for hours! The only time the staff interupted me during this time was to joke around and I got to know them as friends. One time I bought a rope from them, took a huge whipper and blew the core out of the sheath. I took it in there and just said can you help me? A week later I had a new rope and it wasn't because it was under warrenty. They hooked a loyal customer up!
Cheers Gary!
S...
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bjj
climber
beyond the sun
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The logical response to "the customer is always right" line is actually "10% of your customers will waste 90% of your time. It is in your best interest to fire those 1 out of 10, so you can better serve the other 9".
Anyone who has ever owned a business either knows this outright, or has a general sense of it.
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Ken M
Mountain climber
Los Angeles, Ca
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I knew Gary and Bibi, and thought they were great, generous folk.
I think much of the problem that I hear mentioned is rooted in Gary's prediliction to hire climbers.
If you think about the characteristics of climbers....aren't particularly interested in suffering beginners, have a fair amount of contempt for silly questions, are as dependable as the weather, either drinking smoking or snorting whatevers around, hitting on any female within a mile.....
You kind of think he would have solved a lot of customer service problems if he'd hired the typical REI crowd, instead.
Seems like the climbing community biting the hand that fed them....
Jest sayin'
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bhilden
Trad climber
Mountain View, CA
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You kind of think he would have solved a lot of customer service problems if he'd hired the typical REI crowd, instead.
"Yeah, I think we got them carabiner things in the store somewhere."
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Bldrjac
Ice climber
Boulder
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I remember calling up REI and asking them if they had the mono-point conversion kits for Spikeez, and the employee said, "Just a minute, I'll go check." :-) But I must say, while I find frequently many REI employees don't seem to have deep experience in climbing, trekking, backpacking, skiing, etc., I have never found one that tried to b.s. me on anything, and they have all been friendly. While I always try to support Gary, and any small business for that matter, I too shop at REI at times. But then, I am a retailer's dream customer....not a big shopper, but when I do, I know what I want, and am willing to pay for it. HATE big box stores, and the lack of person-ness on-line shopping. When I walk into a store (or bar, for that matter!) and people working there know my name and what I might like, that's worth some extra sheckles to me!
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mouse from merced
Trad climber
The finger of fate, my friends, is fickle.
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There is NEVER an excuse for ANY poor customer relations...--Mr. Locker
There is always a reason, which can be seen as an excuse by the one at fault--if you'll excuse my reasoning--for bad customer relations. It should be borne in the memory, however, and only forgiven if an honest attempt is made to repair the damage...
It is a two-way street, after all, as are all relationships, Timid Tightrope.
In specialty shops, customer service is an attitude you either cultivate in yourself and your staff or it's gonna hurt your bottom line. Repeat business is the key; and, lacking help or useful advice, who wants to pay the prices the specialty owners have to ask in comparison with REI and the other biggies??
I would rather be fawned over and made to feel worthy than to be ignored.
I recently walked out of a restaraurant I had been looking forward to eating at for weeks, without ordering, when the girl at the counter kept talking on the phone to a friend. I gave her three minutes, interrupted her, then mentioned why I was leaving, and I won't go back (unless someone else offers to pay--my hypocrisy knows no limits).
Maybe I'm confusing this shop with one named for a different planet?
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maldaly
Trad climber
Boulder, CO
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Gary was always proud of that toe: It was the only body part in his museum. Until Kirby donated his, of course. Now he has two toes.
I'm having coffee with the new owner next week. I'll bring up the toe and see what her plans are. If she doesn't want it, any of you 'tacos out there have a need for a toe?
Mal
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Prod
Trad climber
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You are one odd dude DMT!
Prod.
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Carrbro2
Mountain climber
Lakewood, Colorado
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I was told that the AAC would not take the museum stuff because they had no place to display it, couldn't store it, and were still paying off the buildout of the museum. I was also told it wasn't part of the sale. There has to be a place for that stuff, its too important ot break the collection up...
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Prod
Trad climber
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Haha, who doesn't.
Cheers,
Prod.
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philo
Trad climber
Is that light the end of the tunnel or a train?
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JLP you sound like a bitchy fat broad who's all pissed off and whining about getting a ticket for parking in the handicapped spot at Dairy Queen.
Gary has my deep respect. He is such an accomplished skier and climber and still getting after it on a regular basis. I am always seeing him out and about climbing all over the place. Gary and his staff have always been great to me. They did get ripped a lot by unscrupulous shoppers who picked the brains of his knowledgeable staff, consuming their time and patience, only to go buy on line or at REI to save $12. There is NO way for a single store Mom & Pop operation to compete with a behemoth like REI let alone the Internet. It is the end of an age and I am a little sad for what will be lost. If you knew a shred of the significant history enshrined in Gary's museum you would be stunned. But you should also know that of equal significance is the history generated by the community who for decades have gathered under the roof of Neptune Mountaineering.
Cheers Gary. Best wishes for a rewarding new chapter.
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JLP
Social climber
The internet
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IMO, the bulk of money doesn't come from people interested in all that old junk. The vast majority of the displays are really just inside jokes between Neptune and his friends and past employees, many of whom are senior citizens who don't climb anymore. The rest are archeological relics from a long dead era. That junk probably held more interest 30-40 years ago. I think that museum symbolizes the store's real problem - a place that can't evolve and change with the times. Let Gary take his stuff, condense the rest to a corner of the store, then update remainder. How about climbing from the past - say - 20 years?
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Kenygl
Trad climber
Salt Lake City
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A lot of good people through the doors of that shop. I think the first time I went there I met Jack Roberts, who was a friend of a friend in LA, I also think Brett Ruckman was there as well. Fascinating shop. Back in the day when you went to a mountaineering shop for the vibe.I came to the party late, '89ish and remember Gary teaching a telemark seminar in the parking lot in Vail at a demo day event. I still remember him bombing down the run with REALLY skinny touring skis no more than in line, kick and glide skis really. Perfect tele turns on very minimal gear. I never put on a pair of alpine skis again after seeing that. I have always kept that run in the back of my mind aspiring to ski like that.
Once we lose the historic significance which climbers who came before us, bold, strong, fearless people with vision, gave us climbing becomes skate boarding, all hype and trendy. The young climbers who get this historic legacy will continue to push the sport in a good direction the rest are just followers and sh#t talkers sucking the salty tit of pop culture.
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philo
Trad climber
Is that light the end of the tunnel or a train?
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JUNK! WTF?
The only junk at Neptune's is the crap sputtling out of your pie hole because you didn't receive the deference you thought you were due.
Once we lose the historic significance which climbers who came before us, bold, strong, fearless people with vision, gave us climbing becomes skate boarding, all hype and trendy. The young climbers who get this historic legacy will continue to push the sport in a good direction the rest are just followers and sh#t talkers sucking the salty tit of pop culture. Worth repeating.
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survival
Big Wall climber
Terrapin Station
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I like toe cleavage...
Me too....
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crunch
Social climber
CO
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IMO, the bulk of money doesn't come from people interested in all that old junk. The vast majority of the displays are really just inside jokes between Neptune and his friends and past employees, many of whom are senior citizens who don't climb anymore. The rest are archeological relics from a long dead era. That junk probably held more interest 30-40 years ago. I think that museum symbolizes the store's real problem - a place that can't evolve and change with the times. Let Gary take his stuff, consense the rest to a corner of the store, then update remainder. How about climbing from the past - say - 20 years?
Well, it's true that a museum is not the same place as a retail store. Gary has been hoping that he could hand his collection off to a museum, somewhere. Nothing yet....
There are people interested in those "archeological relics," witness the recent sale of a 30- or 40-year-old Crack-n-Up for about 100 bucks on ebay:
http://www.supertopo.com/climbers-forum/2036047/Totally-Crack-N-Up-Over-This-One
"the store's real problem - a place that can't evolve and change with the times" is not a problem, it's a feature.
I think Gary would be proud of Neptunes not being just like every other retail store, changing displays with every whim of fashion.
The logical, obvious thing for him to have done would be to follow the lead of North Face or Chouinard/Patagonia--stop selling pesky hardware, hire expensive marketing consultants, sell nano puffs in every flavor and size. Rebrand the store "Neptune Rack." Fire the climbers, hire some polite just-out-of-high-school kids for cheap.
Or else close the store completely, run a purely internet business, run out of an anonymous warehouse in somewhere like Alabama. Not even have any stock at all, just order stuff from the manufacturers as orders roll in, deep discounts on everything because there's no employees, no storefront. No store, really.
But no. Gary's a person of integrity. He's run it his way, and it's worked. I think his store has been a huge success, for him, for Boulder, for climbers. It HAS evolved. It's grown steadily over the years. A few years ago he bought out the space next door to accommodate even more display space for tents and suchlike. It's gonna evolve again, under the new owners.
Thanks Gary!
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JLP
Social climber
The internet
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When Gary hung the majority of that junk on the walls, it was current or less than 10 yrs old. The vast majority are not museum pieces, they’re just a giant scrapbook of Gary's personal life. It's more akin to the decor in a college frat house, where outsiders who didn't go through the secret hazing and get their frat paddle aren't as welcome.
Really, I think this "we're the insiders in the climbing world" crap is what fostered the now infamous Nep-tude culture and landed them broke and on the block.
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JLP
Social climber
The internet
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It HAS evolved. It's grown steadily over the years. A few years ago he bought out the space next door No - the expansion happened pre-internet - like what - 15-20 years ago at this point? The place has been DYING steadily over the past 10. His current financial problems are no secret.
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philo
Trad climber
Is that light the end of the tunnel or a train?
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JLP your insignificance is arrogance is only surpassed by your insignificance.
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JLP
Social climber
The internet
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Keep telling us stories about that 10+ choss gully you lead in the Black, Philo - your life's greatest achievement.
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philo
Trad climber
Is that light the end of the tunnel or a train?
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Well at least I have some achievements.
But my children are my greatest accomplishment.
But you go ahead and keep on laying the ripe steamers of the never was and never will be.
Continue to disregard and denigrate that which came before 'cause it's so classy.
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Ken M
Mountain climber
Los Angeles, Ca
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Really, I think this "we're the insiders in the climbing world" crap is what fostered the now infamous Nep-tude culture and landed them broke and on the block.
Now you are simply an insolent child. Give the computer back to your mommy. You've got to get back to living your life of inconsequence.
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Spanky
Social climber
boulder co
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JLP,
its funny that you refer to Gary's museum as junk when so much homage is paid to that kind of "junk" on this website. It has to be one of the best private collections of historical climbing equipment in the world with some of the highlights as follows;
Tobin Sorenson's ice axe recovered and donated by Jack Roberts
Boots from the first ascent of Everest signed by Edmund Hillary
Peter Habeler's down suit from the first ascent of Everest without O2
Gear donated to the museum by the likes of Tom Hornbien, Pete Schoening, Kurt Diemberger, Warren Harding, Royal Robbins, Yvon Chouinard and countless others
Gear donated by Ashenbruner (I know my spelling is off) from the first ascent of the north face of the Eiger.
If you think that's junk you obviously have no appreciation for the history of this sport. Gary's an eccentric fellow there's no doubt but he created a unique shop and his resume as a climber is probably more impressive than yours. And come on lets be honest every small specialty shop in the country struggles with the attitude problem. I've gotten the tude at the mtn shop in the valley too but for some reason it's not mentioned much. As an earlier poster mentioned and I think we can agree climbers might know climbing but that doesn't make them great at customer service, but how many shops in the country can you go into where you can be confident that the person you are talking is actually a climber and really uses the gear.
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bhilden
Trad climber
Mountain View, CA
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Don't forget that Gary's museum has the knife Simon Yate's used to cut the rope between himself and Joe Simpson which was the seminal event for the hugely popular non-fiction climbing book "Touching the Void." Talk about history!
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JLP
Social climber
The internet
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...his resume as a climber is probably more impressive than yours. Nep-tude.
You used to work there, right? It's obvious. If not, you'd fit right in. You guys all feel this way and project it. You're all better than everyone else who walks in the door.
Except when you aren't. Which, in Boulder, is often.
Now nobody walks in the door anymore. Nobody wants to deal with that sh#t.
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ydpl8s
Trad climber
Santa Monica, California
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Ugh! Is this RC.com?? I clicked on this thread because I was interested in reading about a place that figured a special place in my youth.
Was I really as divisive as this in my younger years? Maybe that's what selective memory (or memory loss as the case may be) is good for, so you can forget what an insufferable jerk you(I) used to be in your bulletproof youth.
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Rankin
Social climber
Greensboro, North Carolina
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Great news for the orinal owners, assuming they got a good price. Sometimes change is good and it sounds like the shop could use a little shake-up.
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bergbryce
Mountain climber
California
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From the article....
Neptune will still work for Backwoods, though his title and responsibilities are still "evolving," Mull said. However, Neptune maintained ownership of the Neptune Mountaineering and Ski Museum, which will remain at the shop.
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deuce4
climber
Hobart, Australia
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JLP,
its funny that you refer to Gary's museum as junk when so much homage is paid to that kind of "junk" on this website. It has to be one of the best private collections of historical climbing equipment in the world with some of the highlights as follows;
Tobin Sorenson's ice axe recovered and donated by Jack Roberts
Boots from the first ascent of Everest signed by Edmund Hillary
Peter Habeler's down suit from the first ascent of Everest without O2
Gear donated to the museum by the likes of Tom Hornbien, Pete Schoening, Kurt Diemberger, Warren Harding, Royal Robbins, Yvon Chouinard and countless others
Gear donated by Ashenbruner (I know my spelling is off) from the first ascent of the north face of the Eiger.
If you think that's junk you obviously have no appreciation for the history of this sport. ...
This is well said. It's not just the archaic gear that is of interest, but the collection of stories involved, all personally connected to Gary and the Boulder (indeed, worldwide) community in some way, that would be lost if the collection was dissociated with Gary and/or split up. Having grown up on the climbing stories of the late twentieth century, there's much in that gear that evokes the peripheral elements of the history and provides unique and requisite detail to an overall compelling story. Otherwise, in the end, all we have is the recorded history, which is a bit boring: so and so did a FA on this date, etc.
Perhaps someone in Boulder could do an oral history with Gary going over the collection while it's still in the shop.
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goatboy smellz
climber
Nederland-GulfBreeze
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Brenda Puff is an expert at oral accomplishments.
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SteveW
Trad climber
The state of confusion
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Yep, we're all senior citizens. And probably still climbing
harder than JLP will ever dream about. . .
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Elcapinyoazz
Social climber
Joshua Tree
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still climbing harder than JLP will ever dream about. . .
Keep telling yourself that if it makes you feel better, meanwhile people who know better are laughing at you.
Why it rankles ya'll to the point of making ridiculous assertions (see above), when someone simply states an opinion (shared by many, actually) that the store had been suffering for a long time, in large part due to inability to move with the times (i.e. recognizing that the little museum and name/reputation doesn't substitute for acceptable customer service in the day of 24/7, clickity click e-commerce.)
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bvb
Social climber
flagstaff arizona
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I don't get it. Why all the shouting? Really?
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crunch
Social climber
CO
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I personally QUIT shopping at Neptune because of the as#@&%e employees...
Yeah, I always make sure to take my pepper spray with me when I shop there, just in case.....
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goatboy smellz
climber
Nederland-GulfBreeze
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Gary is probably laughing all the way to the bank after a seven figure sale of his shitty business.
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ontheedgeandscaredtodeath
Trad climber
SLO, Ca
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Pre google machines and the development of gyms everywhere climbing shops probably had a little more gravitational pull because that was the only place you could get local info, post a note to get a partner, see slide shows, talk to local climbers, etc.
Dunno about Neptunes, I only went there passing through, but understand why some lament its sale.
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JLP
Social climber
The internet
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Gary is probably laughing all the way to the bank after a seven figure sale of his shitty business. The paper says he's going to be an employee there. That sounds like a very lucrative retirement.
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Mighty Hiker
climber
Vancouver, B.C.
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It's normal in a purchase of a small business for the former owner(s) to be an employee or consultant for one or two years afterward. It may allow a more orderly transition. It is also ensures that the former owner can't start up another competing business, which is usually reinforced through restrictive covenants.
Often, the former owner is an "employee", and paid a "salary", essentially on the condition that he/she stay away.
There can also be tax reasons for the former owner to take some of the payment in the form of "salary".
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Brandon-
climber
The Granite State.
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JLP doesn't understand, or care about, such nuances.
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JLP
Social climber
The internet
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FACT: The store was in the hole and losing money. They did not buy a successful international business like 5.10. They bought a local train wreck about to file for bankruptcy. IMO, Gary needs the healthcare plan more than Backwoods needs advice on how to run a store.
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BrassNuts
Trad climber
Save your a_s, reach for the brass...
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I've had my share of mostly good and sometimes not so good customer service at Neptune's over the years but I'm sad to see the last independent mountain shop in Boulder go down... I enjoyed many of the slide shows and presentations over the years, lots of great stuff. Also, kudos to Gary and staff for opening up the store as a venue to honor and celebrate the lives of climbers lost on many occasions.
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goatboy smellz
climber
Nederland-GulfBreeze
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JLP
Social climber
The internet
Jan 8, 2013 - 04:28pm PT
FACT: The store was in the hole and losing money. They did not buy a successful international business like 5.10. They bought a local train wreck about to file for bankruptcy. IMO, Gary needs the healthcare plan more than Backwoods needs advice on how to run a store.
Prove it.
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JLP
Social climber
The internet
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It's well known. Everyone who lives here and actually talks to people outside Supertopo is at most 1 person away from someone who currently or recently worked there. The various stores going under here have been talked about for years. Specifically at Neptune - seasonals cut, no stock, no credit, no sales - add that up.
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goatboy smellz
climber
Nederland-GulfBreeze
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No difference DMT, just bored and enjoy watching JLP avoid the question and dig his hole deeper.
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orangesporanges
Social climber
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I did a course with CMS. Neptune had advertised that CMS clients would get a 10% discount on purchases.
I took a pair of Sportiva Spantik's, Gore Tex shell, pair of BD Cobras and 2 60m ropes up to the cash register for purchase along with my course receipt from CMS. Neptune Dude wouldn't give me the 10% discount. He said simply 'Sorry. What you are asking for is incorrect' - This was June 2011.
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JLP
Social climber
The internet
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I don't think you'd find many who disagree that he's a generous man of integrity who has done much for the community...
But, it also makes sense for people to hear yet another inside perspective on how the Nep-tude came right down from the top...
I would go further to say that most walk into that store as dirt and have to prove themselves worthy of spending their money there.
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Bob D'A
Trad climber
Taos, NM
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Locker wrote: I have the sneaking suspicion that JLP is correct...
I can't see HOW Neptunes could have been making much of a profit...
Not with REI so close by, with MUCH BETTER customer service...
I call bullshit on that...I have been a friend of Gary since the 70's.
The man has done more to promote climbing goodwill and providing a real climbing store to the Boulder climbing community than REI could in ten lifetimes.
Stores don't have loyal shoppers anymore they have entitled bargin hunters.
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Bob D'A
Trad climber
Taos, NM
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Locker...you are a newcomer. You have have no idea what Gary has done for climbers and the climbing community in the Boulder area.
The shop is a victim of cheap-ass entitled white-ass climbers with little or no idea what is is to be a good loyal customer.
As Kevin over at Fixe once told me..."he isn't a loyal customer, he is bargain hunter".
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JLP
Social climber
The internet
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The man has done more to promote climbing goodwill and providing a real climbing store to the Boulder climbing community than REI could in ten lifetimes.
Stores don't have loyal shoppers anymore they have entitled bargin hunters.
REI is huge and has given more back to the Access Fund, various local clean ups, charities, classes and workshops all over the country than Neptune ever did or could. Their financials and annual reports detailing their activities are there online for everyone to see.
As for loyalty, I inherited my father's membership number from the 60's and have been shopping there my whole life. Most of my big ticket purchases go to REI.
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Bob D'A
Trad climber
Taos, NM
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JLP wrote: REI is huge and has given more back to the Access Fund, various local clean ups, charities, classes and workshops all over the country than Neptune ever did or could. Their financials and annual reports detailing their activities are there online for everyone to see.
And they get a great tax write off...the dip-shits that work there don't know the difference between a camolot and a friend.
I wish the best for Gary and glad that he doesn't have to deal with entitled little Boulder as#@&%es like you anymore.
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JLP
Social climber
The internet
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I wish the best for Gary and glad that he doesn't have to deal with entitled little Boulder as#@&%es like you anymore.
Oh but he does, as an employee at what used to be his own store!
We can start another thread here when they fire his ass!
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Bob D'A
Trad climber
Taos, NM
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JLP wrote: Oh but he does, as an employee at what used to be his own store!
We can start another thread here when they fire his ass!
What a little dipshit you are. Gary has lived a positive and full life..unlike your lame ass.
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Bob D'A
Trad climber
Taos, NM
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Locker..I'm not pissed just disappointed in your ranting lame ass posts.
Locker..tell me what have you done for climbing in the Boulder area?
Blank...nothing!
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Bob D'A
Trad climber
Taos, NM
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Locker..ever run a business with 10 or more employees?
I doubt it.
JLP claim to fame is that his lame ass got haul up a few FA's in the Boulder area by Dan Hare...a Neptune employee.
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Prod
Trad climber
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I was just there to buy some skin tails. Talked to Jenny about the sale. She said that the store was going to stay basically the same. That the museum was going to stay there but that Gary still owns it. The changes would be minor to the public and more infrastructure issues.
I've been treated poorly there, I've had great service there too.
My wife kicked me in the jaw on one of our first dates too. True story, roundhouse. POW... nailed my jaw 6' or so off the floor.
I take the good with the bad.
Prod.
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Bob D'A
Trad climber
Taos, NM
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Here is how it goes...person comes into Neptune's and want to try on climbing shoes or ski boots. Employee spend a half hour finds out what size and fit and then customer stated that he can get them $5 to $10 dollars cheaper at REI or the internet.. and walks out the door.
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Prod
Trad climber
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No that's me bro.
HANKSTER for president!!!
Prod.
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johntp
Trad climber
socal
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mdaly-
It will be interesting to find out what transpires in your meeting. Back in high skool and college I worked at the Backwoods in Dallas; after graduating I worked as an assistant manager and manager at the Wichita, KS and Norman, OK stores respectively. The stores were pretty much geared to backpackers and climbers.
Managing the Norman store was pretty cool as that was in the early '80s when the okie climbers were in their golden age. Met quite a few really damn nice, dedicated climbers that gave me a lot of inspiration. When I took over the store it became apparent the previous manager was using it primarily as an outlet to support his drug dealing. It was a hole and he had no clue about climbing and hiking.
I tried to turn it around but unfortunately had to close it after a year or two. The dirt bag local climbers just did not have enough disposable income to support the store, and being Oklahoma there were not many other sources of income. An occasional pack, sleeping bag or tent to someone going backpacking in CO was about it.
Over the years of working for them their business model changed to catering software to wealthy hunters, fly fishers and their fashion oriented wives.
Have not been to one of Backwoods stores in ages, so I don't have a clue as to what their business model is these days. When I was there it was based out of Wichita, KS. The CEO/Owner was a guy that made big money in oil and started Backwoods as a lark.
Speaking of which, at the time we had a TNF rep who's name was Bill (TNF was pretty much in it's infancy). I don't remember the last name - Quigham or something like that. Cool guy; anyone know him?
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Prod
Trad climber
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that's ALL I am trying to point out and there it is, AGAIN...
Brassnuts ALSO wrote something similar...
I can't begin to count how many I personally KNOW that have said, similar...
WHY GET PISSED AT ME for NOT liking SH!TTY service???...
Just DOESN'T make ANY fuking sense...
I don't and won't deffend CRAPPY employees!!!...
BOTTOM LINE!!!...
EDITED:
I am an ASSHOLE for WANTING better service...
LMAO!!!...
HUH???...
Lighten up princess. I still love you. Even if I can't find my shoes.
Prod.
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Prod
Trad climber
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~ph isn't Tami is it?
Prod.
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blahblah
Gym climber
Boulder
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The shop is a victim of cheap-ass entitled white-ass climbers with little or no idea what is is to be a good loyal customer.
I wish the best for Gary and glad that he doesn't have to deal with entitled little Boulder as#@&%es like you anymore.
I'm guessing Neptune's was able to hold on, more-or-less, for years longer than would have been possible if those "entitled white-ass little Boulder as#@&%es climbers" would have shopped strictly according to their self interest, which would be to buy pretty much everything from REI or the Internet.
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Greg@Bent Gate
Gym climber
Golden, CO
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Hi Locker!
Have you had enough of this rude and childish treatment after posing such a poignant, honest and frank opinion illustrating the rude underbelly of Neptune Mountaineering? I bet you have! Do you wish there was a climbing shop that is completely intolerant of poor service and where customers such as yourself can "be themselves" without the fear of the judgement that goes on in Boulder? Well there is!
I would like to take this opportunity to formally invite you (as well as all of the lurkers and non-lurkers alike) to come join our fun-loving, California friendly and responsible bunch of climbing aficionados who know the benefits of what good customer service brings to the climbing community. I think most all of you will find that our seasoned employees "keep the bar high" by maintaining a sense of order and decorum, while encouraging quality discussion and service about our favorite pastime. We also have superior choices in climbing equipment as well as a state-of-the-art credit card processing so you can get out there and go climbing with little downtime shopping for your gear.
Our store may take a small amount of getting used to, as we do have reasonable standards as far as language and posing that are strictly enforced. Signing up for our customer loyalty program is easy and painless, and the rules will be explained in detail during the process. I will warn you however up front that being rude to our staff is strictly "VERBOTEN", and something we have zero-tolerance with. So if you are tired of the juvenile intolerance of alternative lifestyles that is continually on display at Neptune’s and yearn for a climbing shop that embraces the rainbow of retail sales, all I can say is: "Come join the fun"!
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Prod
Trad climber
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Haha,
I was reading and saying this does not sound like Tami. I am on here way way too much.
Who are you ~ph?
Prod.
AKA Guy Kenny.
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Greg@Bent Gate
Gym climber
Golden, CO
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Of course!
Come on down and tell them Greg gave you 25% off anything in the store.
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Ken M
Mountain climber
Los Angeles, Ca
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Locker,
This thread is sort of a eulogy to an iconic entity in the Boulder area for 40 years. If you think about it, there are not many climbers that can point to a 40-year business that they started and ran successfully for that period of time.
So, this is something of a eulogy for an era passing.
Now, I don't know your experience in giving eulogies and talking at memorial services, but mine is that you generally don't spend your time trashing the subject, for which people have some emotional attachment.
As I said, the bad characteristics that you and others complain about in Gary's employees are the common and typical characteristics of many climbers. He literally hired them by the hundreds.
I find it ironic that kicking the climbers out would have undoubtedly produced better customer service, and produced many poorer climbers.
Gary made a decision, and it clearly hit his pocketbook. But that is what happens when you keep faith with those who share your lifestyle.
But when it crosses over into PERSONAL insults against Gary, based upon no personal knowledge....that's just infantile crap, from inconsequential minds.
You aren't part of that, thankfully.
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Ken M
Mountain climber
Los Angeles, Ca
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FACT: The store was in the hole and losing money. They did not buy a successful international business like 5.10. They bought a local train wreck about to file for bankruptcy.
Fact: JLP is a liar, writing about stuff he knows nothing about.
When he tells you he has you on belay, remember that.
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Bob D'A
Trad climber
Taos, NM
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Locker...make sure run down to Bent Gate for that 25 percent off. LOL
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Ken M
Mountain climber
Los Angeles, Ca
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Bob...
REI's return policy is part of their CUSTOMER SERVICE...
Did Neptunes have a SIMILAR one???...
Yes, locker, he had a policy of employing CLIMBERS who actually knew the use of the products they were selling.
That is a CUSTOMER SERVICE.
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Bob D'A
Trad climber
Taos, NM
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Locker..I run a business that does over 3 million in sales and I would never get on the internet and bash another business and make sarcastic remarks trying to get new customers...not my style.
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JLP
Social climber
The internet
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Here is how it goes...person comes into Neptune's and want to try on climbing shoes or ski boots. Employee spend a half hour finds out what size and fit and then customer stated that he can get them $5 to $10 dollars cheaper at REI or the internet.. and walks out the door.
So one day Gary pulls his head out of his butt and says hey REI - I see your 10% and raise you a whole flip'n 19% - and actually told a few people about it - the Feb 29th 1 day sale. Neptune's is decimated - cleaned out - scorched earth. I go in there the next day and there is NOTHING left to buy.
If you can't compete and still make money in the middle of what certainly must be the largest per capita spending on the planet on outdoor gear...
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Prod
Trad climber
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Hey Ken M.
I read what you wrote to Locker, then deleted.
YOU ARE A DICKHEAD. Proven many times on this forum.
Prod.
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Greg@Bent Gate
Gym climber
Golden, CO
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We look forward to pleasuring all of Neptune's former customers!
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Bob D'A
Trad climber
Taos, NM
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Greg has three posts here all bashing Neptune's and trying to get customers...wow.
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Bob D'A
Trad climber
Taos, NM
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Greg wrote: Bolts are on sale now Bob!
Class act you are Greg.
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Bob D'A
Trad climber
Taos, NM
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Tami/Ph..I have nothing against Greg..just loss a little respect for him to come on this site as a business owner and bash Neptune's. Like I said before not my style.
Forty years in business and no doubt Gary made some mistakes...I know I have.
As to Neptune's...I think they will come out this OK...Backwoods more than likely has the resources and money to make things happen.
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Prod
Trad climber
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The Boulder where Verner still fixed hippie buses.
74 Westy rebuilt by Verner in 1991. Also resided in the "World Famous" chicken coop somewhat near Martin Acres...
Prod.
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SWH
Trad climber
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Greg - you run Bent Gate AND AlpineZone? What a renaissance man!
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Bldrjac
Ice climber
Boulder
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Pam here. Oh, that would be Pam (Ranger) Roberts, who worked at Neptune's off and on for about 9 years, beginning in 1983ish and ending in 1999, in every capacity from salesperson, to book buyer, to floor manager, and isn't afraid to hide behind my ST tag name. Yes, I DO take it personally when some of you say that "I stopped going there because of "the" a#$h&3le employees." I'm going to go out on limb here and say that I seriously doubt that many people thought that of me, or many other of my colleagues, at least during the times I worked there. Were we all perfect all of the time? I seriously doubt it. Are you perfect all of the time? Judging from your hateful spew, I seriously doubt that either. Retail is a hard business, and if you've never been involved, don't judge. If you have, take a look in the mirror. Please undersand, if you had a bad experience, I'm sorry...take it up with that particular employee, or the manager, or Gary. If it doesn't change to your liking, you have every right to your opinion, and your right to no longer go to that store. At any one time in any business (I am in education now...is every teacher in my school great? Hardly. Does that make my school suck? Not at all!) Did we try to be as good as possible? In my case, and the people I worked with, I can also say (most always) yes. If you have a beef with an establishment, I get that. But to possitively SHRED a place that has been in existence for 40 successful years, with TONS of still-dedicated customers, you are in the wrong. I'm not going to throw out names, but some of you might want to re-read some of your postings, and wonder where your vitriol comes from. I, and all of us, spent plenty of hours GLADLY helping people like you, who I knew was NEVER going to buy from us, but buy on-line or from a store with cheaper prices whose employees didn't have as much experience as we did. I always felt like if I gave good service, then perhaps we would gain a customer in the long run. That was always my effort. And indeed Gary can be quirky, but he has given his LIFE to the Boulder climbing scene. Anyone who thinks he has raked in tons of money during this eneavor has NEVER been involved in small-businees retail. Most money Gary made he put right back into the store, and as much as he could, back to the employees. We got benefits that no other store offered....staff ski trips to Snowbird, small bonuses if we climbed certain things (usually in the low grades, not gnarly things), if we climbed, skied, camped in the same month, Christmas bonuses, etc. I'm not at all trying to say that Neptune's is or was perfect. Nothing is. I'm not, and you aren't, either. All I'm saying is that some of you have been unhappy with the store...that's totally fair. Why then are you so unbelievably over-the-top about it, when at the very same time WAY more people WERE happy with the store??...that's why it stayed in business for 40 years, despite its quirkiness. Gary is 65 years old now or so.....yeah, it's ok for him to want to do something different now, and sell the store. Gary did NOT go out of business like some others in our community for poor business practices. He SOLD the business....he has nothing to be ashamed of (well, maybe the scab collection! :-) )...we should all be so lucky to get to live out our passion, and make some others' happy (customers, employees) in the meantime, and even make a living. Did icons like Heinrich Harrer, Reinhold Messner, Layton Kor, etc., etc., give him all that stuff because Gary BOUGHT it from them? No, they GAVE him that stuff because Gary is the real deal. Like the rest of us climbers, full of ambition, passion, quirkiness, love of the mountains, and perhaps even some fear. And if you think some of that stuff isn't symbolically important, than I suggest you spend some time learning about the people and climbers upon whose shoulders you stand. I just simply don't know where this anger of yours comes from, and I find it terrifically pathetic and sad....if you are trying to be funny, you are not. If you think you are cute and cutting edge sarcastic, you are not. We climbers are a unique and crazy bunch, and I have gained much from many of you especially in this last year by being a member of ST. But I can't stand idly by and listen to so much spite that seems so very needless, and diminishes us as people, and as climbers. So be happy, and go shop at REI or on-line at Sierra Trading Post. I'm sure it will be an awesome, memorable, and money-saving experience. Just try to loosen up a bit. All this is supposed to be fun also, isn't it?
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Bob D'A
Trad climber
Taos, NM
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Love you Pam and remember those days fondly...you, Jack, Pete, Paul, Todd, Steve and others did a great job. You should be proud to have worked in a community based store that did so much for the Boulder climbing community.
Another thing about Gary...he just couldn't say no when it came to helping out climbers. A great man who will be missed...I wish the best for him.
Locker...praising Greg to come on here and bash another store/Gary tell me a lot about how your mind works.
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Bob D'A
Trad climber
Taos, NM
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Locker wrote: For me, it was always about a couple of crappy employees...
Forty years in business and a few crappy employees...shit what a failure!!
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Bob D'A
Trad climber
Taos, NM
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PH wrote: Once again- none of his detractors here are even in his league.
You got that right. Not even close.
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Bob D'A
Trad climber
Taos, NM
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Locker...you been Bashing Neptune's from the start of this thread...Gary last name is Neptune...do you see any connection??
Or has the glue gotten in your head? :-)
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Bldrjac
Ice climber
Boulder
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Phil, hugs back! Todd, you're welcome. WTF, glad you liked it. Bob, love you too! Locker, it's down to "a couple crappy employees." That sounds WAAAY more like it! :-)
If we can't support each other, and help us all be successful, than we are not a clan, and we can't honestly celebrate what it is to be a lifelong climber. We will not always agree, that's for sure, but let's just try to keep the ugliness out, shall we?
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Darwin
Trad climber
Seattle, WA
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I have to say that Tami and Bob D'A come across a lot better than the detractors. Being pathologically coastal, I was only there once but liked it just because. I bought some approach shoes with good advice, and the shoes served me well. I climbed with one of the employees at JTree and that was one of the best cragging trips of my life.
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Bob D'A
Trad climber
Taos, NM
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Looking it as something that has lasted 40 years I think Neptune's can stand proud on what it has offered to the Boulder community and the employees that worked that gave great service, route beta and gear information.
I'll miss it...not always perfect but very familiar. A loss to Boulder climbing community.
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SicMic
climber
two miles from Eldorado
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Holy crabs what a shiet show.
But I'll miss Gary the man, quirks and all. I'll miss the shop. I'll miss all the old employees. I'll miss giving the occasional show.
Progress is a bitch, but that's what we're stuck with. Thanks Pam for your glimpse of sanity, Bob D for keepin' it real.
(and an old pic for the kids -on display inside the front door at Neptune. Name us all, win a prize!)
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Ken M
Mountain climber
Los Angeles, Ca
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Hey Ken M.
I read what you wrote to Locker, then deleted.
YOU ARE A DICKHEAD. Proven many times on this forum.
Prod.
That's ok, prod. Locker can stand up for himself.
As for you, I'm sure you were perfectly happy to take advantage of the Neptune fundraising efforts for the things you believe in, even if you never put in a penny.
Glad to see that you want to pile on to kick a friend of the climbing community who didn't make his mark by talking, like you do, but by ACTUALLY climbing.
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Ken M
Mountain climber
Los Angeles, Ca
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I was busy drinking from the little black bottle KEN M passed me...
;-)
Cheers. :)
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Prod
Trad climber
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As for you, I'm sure you were perfectly happy to take advantage of the Neptune fundraising efforts for the things you believe in, even if you never put in a penny.
Glad to see that you want to pile on to kick a friend of the climbing community who didn't make his mark by talking, like you do, but by ACTUALLY climbing.
What? Please explain.
Prod.
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Ken M
Mountain climber
Los Angeles, Ca
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prod, you made a big production in the other thread about a climbing mag not treating climber contractors right.
So here we have an example of a business treating their employee climbers right.
So what do you do, jump in with the group, upon the announcement of the sale of the store, bashing the guy.
To what end? The store is sold. Neptune is not running it anymore. Nothing anyone says will change Neptune's management, because he won't be managing.
The point? To kick someone in the teeth on the way out.
Remember that what comes around, goes around. When you make the bonehead mistake and crater, you can look forward to a bunch of people letting your relatives know about all your deficiencies.....because that's how you want to do things, I guess. I walk to a different beat.
As for the specific issues involved with my deleted post, the relevant sources:
8.Made a list of all persons we had harmed, and became willing to make amends to them all.
9.Made direct amends to such people wherever possible, except when to do so would injure them or others.
10.Continued to take personal inventory, and when we were wrong, promptly admitted it.
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Bob D'A
Trad climber
Taos, NM
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Ken M wrote: The point? To kick someone in the teeth on the way out.
Which bring me to believe that Greg at Bent Gate is the one we should pity.
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Crimpergirl
Sport climber
Boulder, Colorado!
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All - isn't "Greg at Bent Gate" the same character 'luring' everyone to Mountain Project a while back? At the same time, he was on MP luring people to ST? He also did this stuff at Alpine Zone and other places.
In other words, he's big ol' troll. He's got a lot of fishies on his lures right now, no? :/
Remember? See e.g., http://www.supertopo.com/climbing/thread.php?topic_id=1938915&tn=100.
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Ljohnson
Social climber
The land of ice, snow and rocks
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I respect Gary and everything he has done for the Boulder community....
But aside from Dan helping me with BoCan beta, the staff at Neptune's has always (in my 18 years of patronage,) been unhelpful and aloof.
As a manager for a locally owned outdoor retailer and guide service I wholly support locally owned business, but if my business had poor customer service I would expect my business to fail.
Then again, I don't have a toe in my shop.
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Lynne Leichtfuss
Sport climber
moving thru
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Against my best inclinations not to comment on this thread for a variety of reasons......dang am gonna say something.
Business, Personal and other battles are just that....battles that bother the heart and soul if yo believe'in in em. Chill is the word. People and life are more important than strife....jess sayin'. lynnie on a dang cold winter nite.
Peace All.
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Mighty Hiker
climber
Vancouver, B.C.
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I only visited Neptune Mountaineering once, in IIRC about 2003. I was in Estes Park for Access Fund meetings, and then spent a few days in Boulder. A visit to Neptune's was essential, given its reputation. I was there on a quiet weekday afternoon, and had a good look around over several hours. I'm reasonably familiar with climbing retail, and from what I could see and hear the place was well run, had wide and deep selection, and had knowledgeable and experienced employees. (The museum stuff of course added greatly to the character, but let's leave that aside.) Overall, it seemed very much sui generis.
There are lots of climbing stores that start small, cozy, and with attitude. The owner's a climber, his friends work there, they mostly have climbing-related stuff, and funky decor. They were common in the 1970s - up here we had MEC, which then matched that description, the Swallow's Nest, and Der Sportsmann in Leavenworth. Many didn't survive more than ten years, and those that did almost always did so by greatly broadening and (usually) diluting their roots. Most often by getting into clothing then, which would now be the "lifestyle" products. More corporate oriented ownership, with all its attendant demands for homogeneity and results. And so on. We all saw it happen - I remember meeting people who knew REI when it was a funky little store run by Jim Whittaker, in the 1950s. Somehow Neptune's managed to grow to a respectable size, and sustain things, without falling into the trap that so many other retailers did.
There are some retailers which have grown considerably, become somewhat corporatized, but do still deliver the goods in terms of climbing gear, community, services and stuff - even if you have to hike past kilometres of neon coloured puffies to get to it. In some ways size, discipline and diversification allow them to continue doing a good job serving their core areas, and retain at least some "authenticity". But it's a hard equilibrium to maintain.
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Bldrjac
Ice climber
Boulder
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PH, just enjoying re-reading your postings and wanderings into the past....some great memories there! :-)
I'll make sure to get your message to Linda...
much love to you and Tami!
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healyje
Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
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I recall Gary always being cordial, interested, interesting, and helpful whenever we went into his shop bitd.
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George
Ice climber
Los Alamos, NM
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I am not sure who the Greg@Bentgate guy is, but the profile picture is NOT Greg Floyd, founder and co-owner of Bent Gate.
He might be a manager or employee, but definitely not the owner. Even if Greg the owner felt that he had good reason to dog on a competitor, he is way to business savvy (and too classy) to do it in a public forum.
I worked at Bent Gate 2004-2006. Their growth is a direct result of very good management by the owners and analytical buying It helps when you "steal" your buyer from a PhD program and turn him into a climbing bum, instead of hiring a climbing bum and hoping he can crunch numbers.
That is not to say that during my time there that we did not hire some less than great employees or piss off the occasional customer. Every retail business does that, but it is how you deal with it that matters. As a manager there I personally responded to a few cases where a pissed off customer posted on a forum. We addressed the issue directly and made a loyal customer.
I am sad to see Gary sell Neptune and I hope he did well in the sale. He is one of icons of the outdoor industry and stayed true to his vision of running a core climbing/skiing shop. Time will tell if the new owners can increase profitability without losing what has made Neptune Mountaineering an institution.
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Prod
Trad climber
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prod, you made a big production in the other thread about a climbing mag not treating climber contractors right.
So here we have an example of a business treating their employee climbers right.
So what do you do, jump in with the group, upon the announcement of the sale of the store, bashing the guy.
To what end? The store is sold. Neptune is not running it anymore. Nothing anyone says will change Neptune's management, because he won't be managing.
The point? To kick someone in the teeth on the way out.
Remember that what comes around, goes around. When you make the bonehead mistake and crater, you can look forward to a bunch of people letting your relatives know about all your deficiencies.....because that's how you want to do things, I guess. I walk to a different beat.
As for the specific issues involved with my deleted post, the relevant sources:
You must have reading comprehension problems, or you are just too anxious to get to your point and forget to read what others have written. I am not nor was I bashing Neptune. I'd bet I spent more in that store this year than 98% of the Boulder posters who spent any money there this year. I spent money there yesterday. There was no "BIG" production from me in the Climbing Mag thread, I made an observation and commented on it. And it differed from your perspective so you called me Stupid. Please keep reading below.
And I was not standing up for Locker when I called you a DICKHEAD, I was pointing out to you that you are a DICKHEAD and have shown that to be true more than once here. Just because you went through a program does not give you any right to be a DICKHEAD, apparently it is just the way you are. Personally attacking someone when you can't come up with a logical counterpoint to their argument is a DICKHEADISH move.
Cheers,
Prod.
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philo
Trad climber
Is that light the end of the tunnel or a train?
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Prod I did read up thread that it might be a troll.
It's hard to keep up with threads that take off when I am working.
If it is a troll I appologize.
If it isn't I stand by what I said.
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JLP
Social climber
The internet
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Remember that what comes around, goes around.
I don't recall any negative comments when Culp's store went under.
I think it's pretty funny how Gary's supporters fully admit and even brag about how incredibly polarizing he could be, then take offense in the next breath at how ungrateful the same people he alienated are for not recognizing what a great community builder he was.
He ran a great frat house for a rather small part of the Boulder community, that is all I see. A bunch of people who would otherwise be cleaning toilets and flipping burgers in an otherwise elite town were given a home and a feeling of status. Threats to that world by outsiders were dealt with accordingly. I never saw a Neptune crag cleanup day or anything of the sort for the larger community - only perks for the insiders.
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philo
Trad climber
Is that light the end of the tunnel or a train?
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I don't recall any negative comments when Culp's store went under.
That's because you only see and hear what you want to see and hear.
And that becomes more evident every time you hit return.
Bob got crapped on hard here.
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Elcapinyoazz
Social climber
Joshua Tree
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Bob got crapped on hard
Some people pay good money for that kind of thing...as long as you're wearing leather.
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philo
Trad climber
Is that light the end of the tunnel or a train?
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Clean up in sports wear.
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bvb
Social climber
flagstaff arizona
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When did we start eating our young?
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philo
Trad climber
Is that light the end of the tunnel or a train?
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I missed something other than the boat. What is a TGR thread?
And who cares what JLP thinks? JLP cares.
An army of one.
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ontheedgeandscaredtodeath
Trad climber
SLO, Ca
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Does this thread have more posts than that Chessler antique ropes thread? You Boulder guys take your retail thing quite seriously!
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goatboy smellz
climber
Nederland-GulfBreeze
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Shopping is a competitive sport in this town.
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JLP
Social climber
The internet
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The TGR thread is just some disgruntled guy ranting. I asked the employee in question at the time and as it turns out the customer/TGR tread author had thrown something at the employee (it is on video...) and THAT is why he got booted. Funny he didn't mention that in the thread.... Funny how is wasn't mentioned anywhere in the > 700 replies over the next couple months, either, even at the peak where Neptune employees were posting any and all slander and personal information they could find on the guy. Even Gary himself chimed in. You'd think such a detail would have been highlighted.
Really, by far, it is the most hilarious internet rant thread I've ever read.
If someone got lit up and started throwing sh#t around the store - all the funnier.
In fact, it could possibly be even funnier than watching a certain employee popping veins in his forehead, sweating, turning red and throwing things around behind the climbing counter after a customer asked all the wrong questions about something I completely forget.
I've never seen such drama at REI - for sure.
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Bldrjac
Ice climber
Boulder
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Yeah, at that time wasn't La Sportiva THE best-selling rock shoe in the country, and certainly in Boulder? I remember how stunned I was when we did that (I was there then)....and it barely changed our sales, did it?
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philo
Trad climber
Is that light the end of the tunnel or a train?
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Nice one Phil.
Gary has got balls and class.
Hey JLP we all get that you are all kinds of butt hurt because the Neptune staff did not sniff your O-ring in a properly deferential manner. Obviously because you didn't measure up to their hard dude clique. So give it up. Go take your platinum card to REI. You can impress the noobers by strutting your all knowing badboi stuff there. Surely you will measure up there but might want to wear your heel lifts just to be sure.
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Roots
Mountain climber
SoCal
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Damn it - I never got to see their museum. Anyone know where it'll end up? - ebay maybe : )
PS Bent Gate = kick ass!
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hossjulia
Trad climber
Where the Hoback and the mighty Snake River meet
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I was probably there^^^.
God I miss Pete.
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Bob D'A
Trad climber
Taos, NM
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Phil...Great picture of Pete...climbed Childhood's End (5.12-) on Big Rock with him back in the 90's. He drank a least a bottle and half of wine the night before at the campground and managed to cruise the crux pitch the next morning. He kinda suffered on the hike back out. :-)
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Bob D'A
Trad climber
Taos, NM
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This is what this tread should have been from the start: A tribute to Gary, the store and all fine folks who worked there and the great customers that walk through the doors.
If you never been to Neptune's you missed something great...end of an era. Gone!
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hossjulia
Trad climber
Where the Hoback and the mighty Snake River meet
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locker, step away from the glue...........
Who remembers when Pete got stuffed in a snowbank on the way back from dinner (at Snowbird) and left there?
Also, (another gud one)who had a discount there who was not an athlete or employee, and what was the reason given by Gary?
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hossjulia
Trad climber
Where the Hoback and the mighty Snake River meet
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yup, go sit in the car locker......
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Bldrjac
Ice climber
Boulder
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Soooo great to see those pictures!!! :-) Hossjulia, I think the reason was, "she fit well into my lap." But maybe that was someone else. :-)
Locker, glad to hear you are softening a bit....warms my heart. Or perhaps it's the wine? Whatever...........works for me!
pam
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lamadrida
Trad climber
Superior, WI
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Jan 10, 2013 - 03:38am PT
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This is sad news. We have been going every year to Boulder or Estes to climb (from WI). We often stop at Neptune's for this or that piece of forgotten gear or for beta on local climbs. We've always found the staff to be very patient and helpful, on more than one trip enduring someone from our party trying multiple pairs of rock shoes. I too have placed special orders with them and had them offer to ship them to my house.
I've never had a bad experience with Neptune's and always looked forward to my next visit. I find their merchandise to be fairly priced for the most part. I also appreciated that the people who were selling me climbing gear were expedienced climbers.
Lastly, I've been a big fan of both the consignment gear they sold and the climbing museum. They will be missed by me and my family and partners. In my opinion, one of the best climbing shops around.
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blahblah
Gym climber
Boulder
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Jan 10, 2013 - 04:15am PT
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If you never been to Neptune's you missed something great...end of an era. Gone!
Lastly, I've been a big fan of both the consignment gear they sold and the climbing museum. They will be missed by me and my family and partners.
I think some well-meaning people may be unintentionally making some misleading statements . . . as I understand it, the store's going to stay open, with museum in place. I'm sure the new owners (and Gary who will now work there as an employee) will appreciate everyone's continued patronage.
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goatboy smellz
climber
Nederland-GulfBreeze
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Jan 10, 2013 - 10:24am PT
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Locker you really should take Bent Gate up on their 25% offer.
They have the best selection of cod pieces on the Front Range.
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nature
climber
Boulder, CO
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Jan 10, 2013 - 10:49am PT
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they therma-fit liners, right? I should head over and let them hook me up.
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Steve Grossman
Trad climber
Seattle, WA
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Jan 10, 2013 - 10:51am PT
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Just ask for the PrancerWear section...Tell 'em Christian sent ya! LOL
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philo
Trad climber
Is that light the end of the tunnel or a train?
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Jan 10, 2013 - 11:06am PT
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^^^ BWAhahahahahahaha
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Steve Grossman
Trad climber
Seattle, WA
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Jan 10, 2013 - 11:17am PT
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I had them set aside a pink polka dotted Mini-Cod Dandy for you Doug...and your doubly-blackened dorkness!
Walk on in and say firmly "Yes, I am THE GUY. So fetch my Dandy, Cod Caddy."
Soon you too will breeze up Eldorado Canyon feeling the swell of Pioneer's Pride...in a new and novel sort of way.
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nature
climber
Boulder, CO
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Jan 10, 2013 - 12:12pm PT
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why do I believe you?
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goatboy smellz
climber
Nederland-GulfBreeze
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Jan 10, 2013 - 12:15pm PT
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Stay away from the Naked Edge XL Model, it chafes.
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nature
climber
Boulder, CO
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Jan 10, 2013 - 12:16pm PT
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I'm svelte and petite. Size 2. That's XS to you chubsters....
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Steve Grossman
Trad climber
Seattle, WA
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Jan 10, 2013 - 12:25pm PT
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The PrancerWear section has several fantasy enhancement mirrors so that you can be as BIG...or small as you like while you pose and work that Cod Caddy until the LOOK and FEEL is JUST RIGHT!
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Prod
Trad climber
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Jan 10, 2013 - 12:35pm PT
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Pretty sure that some time around the early 90. Christian/ Verve was making a "Cod piece" type support called the "CG Sling" The idea was to be able to wear the Ghoast Pants without a panty line.
Hank got a confirmation on that?
Prod.
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goatboy smellz
climber
Nederland-GulfBreeze
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Jan 10, 2013 - 12:48pm PT
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I thought that was the Caylor Canoe?
Sturdy aluminum sides with upturned ends.
Slick and sleek!
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SteveW
Trad climber
The state of confusion
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Jan 10, 2013 - 01:09pm PT
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But Steve, Nature's never worn (or at least in public), his
nice pink thong!!!!!
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hossjulia
Trad climber
Where the Hoback and the mighty Snake River meet
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Jan 11, 2013 - 09:40am PT
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The follow up to the Pete stuffing story.
About 20 minutes later I realized he had not made it back to the condo. That plus Pulp Fiction being popped in the VCR made me get up and go look for him.
Found him sitting in the lobby listening to a girl play the grand piano there. He was pissed! He had passed out after being stuffed head first into the snow bank. "You guys left me to die!" or some other such thing came out of his mouth, with a little giggle, he did have a sense of humor after all.
He had a couple of small scrapes on his face, no big deal.
Julliard Music School was having a "retreat" at the same condos. The girl on the piano was fantastic. When she realized she had a small audience, she paused, embarrassed. I asked her her name. "Alanis" is what she said. I said "What?" a couple of times, hard name to get if never heard before and slightly inebriated. She was super good, as we all found out a few years later.
By the time we got back to the condo, the movie was almost over and all the beds were taken, leaving me no place to sleep. Pete was still kinda pissed at the guilty parties and went straight to bed. He had a double to himself, so I crawled in. We drove home together the next day and started dating after that.
I ended up on the discount list at Neptune's after this. Probably because I hauled a truck load of skis back to Boulder, or maybe because of fixing ski poles for Gary, but maybe because of Pete. The reason, "Good Sport". The employee who had to look it up was amazed, he showed it to me, and said he'd never seen that excuse before. I was kind of dumbstruck.
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Tarbuster
climber
right here, right now
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Jan 11, 2013 - 04:14pm PT
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I guess the 70s have finally come to a grinding halt! It's nice that it took a while.
Somewhere there's a terrific black-and-white photo of Gary standing at his shoe cobbling bench, looking out over his shoulder with a smile; this is probably probably pre-Neptunes at Komito's in Estes Park. He looks happy in his work. I believe he "paid that forward" with things like four-day work weeks and group trips to fun climbing areas. (I once summited Devils Tower to find a gaggle of Nuptunians hanging out eating a watermelon they had hauled up!). Never got to work a stint at the shop: the floor manager during the time period in which I applied deemed me overqualified!
Gary and Bibi skiing in the hills above Boulder a couple years ago:
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Mighty Hiker
climber
Vancouver, B.C.
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Jan 11, 2013 - 04:31pm PT
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Shouldn't that be "Kneptunians loved Kneissl skiis"?
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SteveW
Trad climber
The state of confusion
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Jan 11, 2013 - 05:39pm PT
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Tami
Did you know Steve Glenn?
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Prod
Trad climber
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Jan 11, 2013 - 06:08pm PT
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When do we get Tami back?
Prod.
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SteveW
Trad climber
The state of confusion
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Jan 11, 2013 - 09:17pm PT
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Phil
I don't think Steve was there then. He'd been working there
1976-78 or so time period.
But thanks--sheesh, I wish I'd been checkin' in there
back then--I wuz shoppin' closer to Denver.
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SteveW
Trad climber
The state of confusion
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Jan 11, 2013 - 11:42pm PT
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Phil
Steve was, back in 1976 to maybe 1978. I went to visit him
one day (this was when the store was on 28th st), leaned on
the counter and started chatting, looked down, and I was on
the cover of On Belay!
Now that was a surprise!
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Jan 12, 2013 - 10:54am PT
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Phil. Thanks for the memories! You're gonna have to get your own account here sir ;)
That troll was masterful indeed. I recognized it right away but only becuase I had seen the letter posted before. (Greg@mountainproject, greg@widefetish) The way he re-worded it was hilarious!
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hossjulia
Trad climber
Where the Hoback and the mighty Snake River meet
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Jan 12, 2013 - 11:41am PT
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Hey! Those Ramer shortcuts in that ski shot back there a ways are mine! I know because of the white plastic heel piece. Still have them. That was a demo pair I scrapped together at the Ramer shop, and that white heel piece was all we had left. It is softer than the black. (Plastic critical binding part. Bad idea.) I have not skied them since they pitched me down Hangman's at Mammoth in '98.
I had them tuned right before I moved at TNF when it was next to Neptune's in Table Mesa and they f*#ked them up, making them base high. I had not really checked them out until I felt that edge slide out from under me and pitch me headfirst toward the rocks. Managed to yank myself around, with much cussing, and hit the rocks with my ass instead.
Never could fix them, 1mm of daylight at the edges, it's hard to scrape off that much p-tex without running through the base, so now they are part of my Ramer museum.
(This has turned into a great thread, thanks Phil and Roy for the pictures.)
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Todd Eastman
climber
Bellingham, WA
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Jan 12, 2013 - 01:26pm PT
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Phil, great pics! I was working at the Profiteer during some of those years and had fun with many of the suspects from Neptune's.
Did you guys ever help that guy that needed a left-thread ice screw we sent over?
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hossjulia
Trad climber
Where the Hoback and the mighty Snake River meet
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Jan 12, 2013 - 02:38pm PT
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I can't place you either, Phil. (Phil, Phil, I know I know who that is, but......Pete would be all like, of COURSE you know Phil!)
But that looks like the load of skis I took back to Boulder with the first group, probably '95?
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wstmrnclmr
Trad climber
Bolinas, CA
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Jan 12, 2013 - 02:50pm PT
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This IS a great thread! I've never heard of Neptunes but I love the history and this represents the best of what Stuportopo provides. Great to to see it last through the sludge that has killed so many other potentially great threads. And any thread Tarbuster contributes to (a rarer occurrence these days) is a reflection of the integrity shown here. Keep it going!
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Big Mike
Trad climber
BC
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Jan 12, 2013 - 03:31pm PT
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mostly what was required was a sense of humor. I am quickly learning that this is the case most places in this world. You have done an excellent job portraying your experiences at Neptune's and giving some life to the name for the clueless (like me).
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JLP
Social climber
The internet
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Jan 12, 2013 - 04:02pm PT
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...the elite thing is BS. I see 3 matches for "elite" in this thread - 2 in your post above and one in mine upthread in the context of "elite town" - Boulder...
I think it's cool when people find a family and enjoy life. Love to see it. However, except for the slideshows, I'm failing to see how these activities were of any benefit to the larger climbing community, as claimed in many posts...
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crunch
Social climber
CO
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Jan 12, 2013 - 04:14pm PT
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Hey Phil, thanks for all your great pics and stories!
This is a great thread.
I remember when Derek Hersey got the idea for climbing the Diamond, solo, in winter. He had no gear for this so Gary quietly gave him all kinds of expensive, top-quality winter gear. Poor Derek was a bit out of his element but Gary was totally supportive.
Derek's first attempt, he lugged a huge, monstrously heavy haul bag full of all the food and gear and stuff, all the way in and stashed it on the Boulderfield, ready for rapping to Broadway. He stumbled out in the dark and hitch-hiked back to Boulder for a few days to rest up. He had no car, so the logistics were not easy. He found a ride with someone and was about to head back up when he got a phone call, "Hey, we rescued your haul bag! Man, it was heavy but we brought everything back down for you; we got it safe and sound--in Fort Collins....."
Derek was horrified. He now had to go recover the bag from Fort Collins before he could even start over. The poor guys who'd brought it down thought they'd done a HUGE favor to someone and were expecting much thanks, at least; there was much sheepishness all round.
Much of that winter was spent with several exhausting forays up and down, before Derek finally called it quits. Gary's generosity benefitted Derek for years--he had lots of cold weather gear for many further adventures.
Quite possibly Gary never really expected Derek to succeed on the Diamond (few of us did, really), but saw in Derek the kind of raw, free-spirited, devil-may-care climber that deserved support, a fellow iconoclast.
Gary's generosity came with no strings.
I think the monster sleeping bag was inherited by Strappo, who, in turn used it for many more adventures.
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hossjulia
Trad climber
Where the Hoback and the mighty Snake River meet
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Jan 12, 2013 - 04:42pm PT
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Ron and I lived across the street from Gary for a year? Maybe a little more? What a gas that was. Neat stuff on the walls, Gary's 50th birthday party, having a fake rock thrown at you when you come in the door, a bouldering cave in the garage, good wine, food and folks.
The slide shows at Neptune's were pretty much my only social life.
I never worked there, but he always invited me to the Snowbird trips. Not Ron, just me ;->
Elitist? Boulder for sure, big reason why I left, but Gary? and Neptune's? Nope. A couple of the bigger names he had work for him, yeah.....
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Prod
Trad climber
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Jan 12, 2013 - 05:23pm PT
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"Hey, we rescued your haul bag! Man, it was heavy but we brought everything back down for you; we got it safe and sound--in Fort Collins....."
F*#king classic. I can nearly hear him now, that had to be a great rant!
Thanks for the story,
Prod.
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JLP
Social climber
The internet
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Jan 12, 2013 - 05:30pm PT
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The only thing that annoys me about your posts is confusing what is obviously a pretty good man and a personal friend with someone who was a pillar to the community and made sacrifices for it. I don't see Gary as someone who crossed that line. All I see is all about him and his crew. Further, there seems to be some kind of insistance that he be respected as a great giver to the community. To place him with the likes of the guys who actually volunteer hours (make that years in a few cases...) for the AF, do cleanups, bolt replacements, etc - it's kind of annoying to me - even more so as this thread wears on. If you just didn't cross that line...
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JLP
Social climber
The internet
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Jan 12, 2013 - 05:59pm PT
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What about that huge discount list in Gary's shop manual? Dude - Gary's bro-deal book - you were serious?
I've stated my point. Carry on.
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Prod
Trad climber
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Jan 12, 2013 - 06:09pm PT
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Lol early leader for the 2013 Bag-O-Dicks Nomination.
Hey, how do I gen in on that?
Prod.
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SteveW
Trad climber
The state of confusion
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Jan 12, 2013 - 06:13pm PT
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Julia
I've got an OLD pair of Ramer bindings too--the serial number on
mine is 0002.
I don't know why I keep them, I've never been much of a skier.
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John M
climber
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Jan 12, 2013 - 07:37pm PT
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Phil, thanks for the great stories. I really appreciated what you said about him running his store his way. Even if that meant losing customers. He had his ideals and that was that. I can understand that and I could understand how that might rub some folks the wrong way. I also really like that he treated his employees well. I had a boss who would take us waterskiing very early in the morning. That made a big difference in ones work experience.
Thanks for the great stories and the background. I enjoy seeing the pictures.
...
As for as the internet. I would advise not answering everyone. You likely wont change some folks minds. Even if you acknowledge their points.
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Alpinist07
Mountain climber
Nashville, TN
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Jan 12, 2013 - 07:44pm PT
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The new owner would be smart to take their time in making any changes. Observe what makes Neptune's Unique and what has put them on the map. Quick changes can result sometimes in unexpected disaster. There's more to running a business than what you can read on a spreadsheet or going over the books. Gary has built a classic shop and has a loyal customer base.
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eeyonkee
Trad climber
Golden, CO
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Jan 12, 2013 - 07:44pm PT
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End of an era, or maybe period, or is it erathem,...epoch? I say we cannonize Gary.
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Bob D'A
Trad climber
Taos, NM
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Jan 12, 2013 - 08:33pm PT
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JLP is a weasel, a whining little Boulder brat.
How in f*#k can some little weasel who has done nothing for climbing come down hard on a community legend like Gary?
Fecking internet!!
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Mighty Hiker
climber
Vancouver, B.C.
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Jan 12, 2013 - 08:35pm PT
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What if Gary doesn't want to be a human cannonball?
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Srbphoto
climber
Kennewick wa
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Jan 15, 2013 - 07:44pm PT
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Austin, Texas-based Backwoods acquired Boulder, Colo.-based Neptune Mountaineering on Dec. 31 for an undisclosed amount.
Neptune Founder Gary Neptune will remain on staff to help with the transition. Neptune recently chatted with SNEWS about the sale.
//Both family-owned companies originally opened in 1973.
What is the significance of the sale on the business?//
We’ll see. For me it’s a step in the direction of eventually being retired. As you know from the release, I’m keeping the museum and I’m still working here doing a lot of the things — especially during a transition period — but surely they won’t need me anymore at some point. I’m looking forward to a lot of fun and a lot of work. Backwoods will be able to bring a lot of things to this store that we could never do as a single store. They’re going to be able to improve a lot of things we haven’t been able to do very well.
What kinds of things will they be able to do that you couldn't?
For instance, they do Internet retailing. You can do that when you have multiple stores, but single shops almost can’t do it. It’s really, really tough and drains a huge amount of energy and money — a lot of stores have tried it and given up after they realized that. That’s an obvious one. Exactly how they use our store versus what they’ve already got going? [You'd have to] talk to them about the future there. ... They will have the ability to do what buying groups do. They have nine stores now, and that’s a certain economy of scale.
What will happen with the current staff at Neptune Mountaineering?
They will remain on. Inevitably staff will change because there’s a lot of turnover with young people who are in school. Plus, some people are going to like the new roles they’re being given and will be able to do a better job and get better training.
How long has this deal been in the works?
Two different answers: Some years ago I’d promised my wife by the time I was 70 I’d have sold the store or have it in the works or something, because we’ve got to have a few good years together. I began telling anybody who wanted to know, "Sure, I’m always for sale," but I hadn’t taken any structured steps in that direction.
Then we finally started getting more serious about it recently. As far as Backwoods goes, it’s just a stroke of luck that we connected. They were beginning to look at expanding in the Rockies, and we were getting serious about selling the business in some fashion. This just ended up seeming like a really excellent fit.
What drew you to Backwoods?
They have a great reputation in the industry. Since we announced the sale, all kinds of people have talked to me and I’ve heard nothing but good about them. I think they’re great people, they drive a good hard bargain because they’re business people, but they’re also very human. I like the fact that it’s a family-owned business.
Another thing that can tie in well with this business is their adventure travel division. That’s one of those many things that I thought about doing for years — but, again, it’s a whole other business and I didn’t have the resources to do it.
How will the store change?
Staff will be able to do a better job because they’ll be given the tools that will help them. I think it will be a good thing for everybody — consumers and everybody in the loop.
What are you most looking forward to about retirement?
I’m not even thinking that far ahead. It’s going to be a while. Like I said, I've still got the museum here and they want me to help out with the slide shows and the promotional things, possibly some training with other stores. There's a whole string of things like that that I’m still going to be doing. It will be a bit of an evolutionary process to see where I best fit in and where I don’t want to interfere.
What kind of changes does this mean for your long-time customers?
I don’t think it means a whole lot of change. They’ll still be getting what they always came here to get. They’ll see improvement, if anything. There will be more accurate stocking and goods and more sophisticated training of staff in terms of merchandising. Those are things I’ve wanted to do better and improve over the years, but never to the degree I’d have liked to. These are all subtle changes that will happen slowly. Honestly, I don’t think a lot of customers are going to realize it happened.
--Compiled by Ana Trujillo
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Hawkeye
climber
State of Mine
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Jan 15, 2013 - 08:19pm PT
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Oh well. Spend money there in the future and you'll be supporting business in what may well be the most bigoted, mysogynistic, gun-happy, flat-out deplorable states in the union
arizona...
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Somehow in the bubble
Big Wall climber
Colorado
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Jan 16, 2013 - 04:30pm PT
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I saw this thread a few days ago and thought it was just another rumor. I stopped by the store a couple of days ago and they were closed for inventory. I was really concerned at that point and stopped by again today and they were open and things looked the same but spoke with one of the employees about the buy out and it is very real. I hope the employees will stay the same and we do not end up with another REI. I looked at the Backwoods website and the gear is very REI. That would be sad to see that stuff in such a cool shop. It looks like another corporate take over that will cost the Boulder people again.
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cary
climber
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Jan 16, 2013 - 07:05pm PT
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PH
Thanks for all,it was a great place to work at for so long.Pam,I hope you are doing well. Sorry so many people did not know it like we did. Cant make em all happy. Look at Luke and scrubby having fun at snowbird. Those are the good times I remember. Do your best and try and make people happy is what we were told.Sorry for those of you who had a bad experience,that was not the our intention at all.
Keep at it if you can...
Griner
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donini
Trad climber
Ouray, Colorado
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Jan 16, 2013 - 07:54pm PT
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It's pretty apropo really. Backwoods is based in Austin. Austin has long been known as "Baja Boulder."
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nature
climber
Boulder, CO
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Jan 16, 2013 - 08:04pm PT
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Ramer?
still riding them...
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perswig
climber
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Jan 16, 2013 - 08:07pm PT
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On Tua's?
Dale
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nature
climber
Boulder, CO
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Jan 16, 2013 - 08:19pm PT
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Rossi Audace's
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Captain...or Skully
climber
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Jan 16, 2013 - 09:32pm PT
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Austin sucks.
Hey Tami, you've got to stop channeling Phil. It's freakin' me out.
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purm
climber
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Jan 20, 2013 - 04:10am PT
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hey phil,
thanks for all the cool memories. Thanks to Pam, CG, as well. It was awesome working with you all- great crew in the late '90s- Clark, Scheibler, Sutton, Luke, Ro, Pierre, TC. Gary's positive influence on the climbing community far outweighs any blog negativity people can drum up. I remember him taking cash out of the register to fill the jar at slideshows that weren't so popular, and awesome christmas parties with the Neptune fam (and many other dinners and parties) for all of us who gave up proximity to our families to climb and ski. Not to mention 4 day work weeks, snowbird, bonuses for climbing (how cool is that?), testing skis, camping, travelling, 14ers... From what I witnessed employees were psyched to work there and generally psyched to help out customers (ie pam's comments earlier) Hope everyone is still psyched- cranking, shredding, and generally getting after it outdoors!
purm
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philo
Trad climber
Is that light the end of the tunnel or a train?
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Jan 20, 2013 - 02:32pm PT
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Thanks for all the great reminiscing.
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