At one time I heard, the purchase of the inventory was made with funds
from the South Bend Teacher's Pension Fund.
If I were a teacher, I would be more than a little worried.  I am not
aware of any teachers spending their summer months at SASCO to secure
THEIR partnered future.
I also recall the story of 'inventory shrinkage' when a pallet of
superchargers and what not, turned up missing.  This was when the
inventory was shifted to the engineering building across the street,
from the old place.  So much for volunteering to help.  Anyone that
did is now suspect.  I pity the people that put in all of their hard
work, never asking for anything in return, to now carry the 'brand' of
being a potential criminal.
I suspect that When Geoff ran the Newman-Altman operation, it was
considered to be a 'salvage operation' much like the old-time scrap
man had, with his horse and wagon.  You buy by the pound and sell
high.  Anyone taught the business in that fashion, would have a hard
time transitioning to a retail operation.  The only ones I know that
have made it work, sent their kids to the best business school they
could afford.

Know exactly what you have to sell.
Know where your product is located at all times.
Advertise smartly.
When setting prices, know what the market will bear.
Protect your inventory from loss and decay.
Market it effectively.
Ship promptly with accuracy.
Always give more than you promise.  Even if it is only a smile, or a
thank-you.
Show a sincere interest in your customer's endevor.
Find out what their next project is and offer suggestions.

KK