Fernandes guitars files for bankruptcy again – but there may be hope for the future of the brand
Fernandes Guitars has entered bankruptcy proceedings once again, but this time there is some hope that the legendary Japanese guitar brand might continue in some form.
This news arrives after the company previously filed for bankruptcy back in July 2024. Shortly after, Fernandes withdrew its petition, but the company hasn’t made any announcements since.
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Now, however, Tokyo-based news outlet, Nikkei Asia, has confirmed that the company has re-filed bankruptcy, with filings claiming the brand has amassed a total debt of around 730 million yen ($4.9 million). The Tokyo District Court granted permission for proceedings to begin on 9 July.
An interesting wrinkle to the new filing, however, is the confirmation that part of the Fernandes trademark has been transferred to another company in advance of these proceedings. While no details have been revealed at this stage, it could potentially mean that Fernandes will continue in some part.
Fernandes’ history begins in 1969, and it grew to become a go-to provider for budget import guitars. In addition to making guitars, Fernandes was also widely known for its Sustainer pickup – which is widely used by other brands and as an after-market add-on.
It ceased trading when it originally filed for bankruptcy last year, and its website remains closed. At the time, Fernandes released a statement in which it said, “Fernandes Co., Ltd. (hereinafter referred to as ‘Fernandes’) is currently owed a considerable amount of debt to multiple creditors, and unfortunately, it has become impossible to continue business.”
It later added, “Creditors and business partners who have claims or debts against Fernandes will be contacted in writing by the attorney representing them in the bankruptcy proceedings… We apologise for the inconvenience and thank you for your patronage over the years.”
Green Day’s Billie Joe Armstrong has used a Fernandes S-type model (affectionally known as Blue) across their live shows for years, having owned it since the age of 11, and even Metallica’s Kirk Hammett has owned one too – his FST-13, named Edna, appears on the cover of Metallica’s The $5.98 E.P.: Garage Days Re-Revisited. Other notable Fernandes players include Ed O’Brien of Radiohead, and Robert Fripp of King Crimson.
Guitar.com will report on any further information regarding the future of the Fernandes Guitars brand.
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Source: www.guitar-bass.net
