A. On June 30, 2001, our previous owners declared bankruptcy. And their financial interests were "frozen" by the bankruptcy law. They had many business interests and had made choices that put them so deep in debt that they were not able to pay back their loans. They terminated all - yes, ALL employees.

This is why, if you tried to reach us by telephone, mail or website since June 30, 2001, you received no response.

Because the debt of our previous owner was so great, no one could afford to buy our business, keep it operating, and assume the debt so that all suppliers could be paid what was owed to them, and customers could be shipped their order or given refunds. As a result, our business was sold at a bankruptcy auction hearing, and on October 26, 2001, we began the reorganization process under new ownership.

Fortunately for us, and more importantly for our customers, our new owner is a lifelong gardener with a profound respect for the traditions of Breck's.

By law, to receive any refunds, product replacements, or correct other problems you may have had prior to October 26, 2001, you will need to petition the U.S. Bankruptcy Court (Case # 01-02175). Because the debt to the banks was so high, it is very unlikely that there will be any monetary compensation to customers for unresolved claims.

We feel very badly at how awful many of our customers have been treated. We have received "mountains" of mail that accumulated over the summer and fall from customers who paid for their merchandise but never received it. And some customers have written that they received nasty, threatening collection letters, on Breck's letterhead, for money owed on products that they never received.

These collection letters were sent out by the previous owners, and may continue to be sent out by their collection agents. We want you to know that we have no connection with these collection agencies.

Unfortunately, because of the way bankruptcy laws work, there is nothing we can do to stop the collection agents from sending our customers more collection letters. However, if you did not receive your order, or the plants died, or you have any other legitimate complaint, you should inform the collection agency and not make payment until they resolve your claim.

With your help and understanding, we can once again, offer the highest quality ornamental plants, trees and other gardening products upon which we have built our reputation. If you have not already received a new catalog, we are continuing to mail catalogs and you should receive one shortly.

May this be your best gardening year ever! We look forward to providing you with the great customer service you deserve.

Have another question? Return to the Customer Service Help page or send an e-mail directly to Customer Service.