Computer Hardware Manufacturing Giant, CaseLabs, Ceases Operations
Computer hardware giant, CaseLabs, has announced that it is ceasing operations and officially closing its doors for good. This comes as a major shock for computer enthusiasts, where the company had established itself as a respected retailer in the intricate arena of custom-crafted computer cases and other related accessories.
CaseLabs, founded in 2009, had quickly established itself as a leader in handmade custom computer cases and accessories targeted at hardcore gamers and computer enthusiasts. The company was unique in the industry, in that they offered a level of customizability and build quality that very few others can match. This was mostly in part to the use of higher grade materials, end to end QC, and the willingness to go above and beyond the standards of the industry.
This level of quality helped them to quickly become a fan favorite and be able to generate great brand loyalty and customer satisfaction. WithCaseLabs' role as a leading innovator in the field and its prominent part in the PC modding community, the company’s decision to close their doors comes as a big shock.
The news that CaseLabs was shutting down was first greeted with shock and disbelief, but was soon followed by a few theories of what happened. Many members of the community particularly were quick to point to customer service issues and speculated it to be the culprit of their demise. There were reports from users encountering long delays when speaking to customer service and not being able to get course of action or guidance from them as needed. Other theories included potential supplier issues, lack of demand for their products, difficulty in recruiting new employees, and difficulty in keeping up with the competition in the ever-changing hardware industry.
Despite the tear of theories and speculation, the official statement released by the company put the blame squarely on itself. The statement reads: “After 10 years of passionately building custom PC solutions, the decision to close our doors was made after carefully assessing a myriad of factors. Ultimately, it was simply not possible to continue operations in a competitive environment. We regret to inform our customers and supporters, who have been with us since the beginning, that our inability to maintain competitiveness has led us to this regrettable situation.”
The loss of CaseLabs further reinforces the general trend towards increasing consolidation of the PC component and hardware industry, as well as a greater emphasis on brand name manufacturers and suppliers. With fewer shoppers and vendors focusing on the enthusiast market, fewer companies like CaseLabs will be able to remain in business.
Despite the unfortunate news, the legacy and impact of CaseLabs will remain concrete within the PC modding and computer enthusiast communities. This is particularly true due to its central role in kickstarting the love of high-end custom cases and a newfound appreciation for customizability and superior build quality. These values have been adopted by more of the PC industry, making them more accessible and widely accepted by the general population.
Including their impact on the computer hardware industry, CaseLabs numerous contributions to the communities it has been a part of should also be remembered. From its involvement in charitable causes, such as its partnership with the Wounded Warrior Projects, to its generous discounts and offers for hobbyists and students.
The last of the employees are expected to finish their work with the closing of the company at the end of May 2021, after which the company will cease all operations. Although the closure of CaseLabs is a tragic event for computer hardware enthusiasts and modders alike, the wonderful legacy of the company and its personnel should never be forgotten.
