Re: SP merger

Posted by Mahoning63 On 2015/3/8 13:37:22

At to why Nance would have considered moving Jet manufacture to South Bend, many elements would have been involved. The first would have been that a modern replacement for Jefferson production (both large and small cars) would have been squarely on his radar, the only question being when, which would have been driven by ability to afford. Everything would have hinged on the success of the '55 large cars. Had they done well - and by well I mean they would have sold triple what Packard actually produced in 1955, which a hot pair of cars might have done - then continuing to produce Jet in the same facility might have become a burden; i.e., Jet would have needed to find a new home.

The second element would have spoken more to the psychology of the Studebaker buyer. Was there something anti-Detroit about his motivations? If so, would have been a useful tool for Nance to exploit.

Finally, the city of South Bend might have proven quite generous to Packard. Today we know such enticements as tax abatements, etc. Back then I have no idea what went on but human nature being what it was and always will be, deal making was undoubtedly in the air.