Is Benz Micro no longer in business?

I have an LPS and asked about a replacement when this one wears out....I got a "sure" from a number of providers

There are in fact still in business, near as I can tell. I got an SL from them about 6 weeks ago.

FWIW - In addition to retip services Soundsmith is taking Benz cartidges in trade for some of its more expensive cartridges. The Soundsmith trade-in program is not as good as the Benz trade-up program. However, you might be waiting quite a long time to use the Benz trade-up program.

I spoke to my dealer today and he told me that for all intents and purposes, Benz is no more. Albert Lukasheck apparently has " lost interest" in the line and has decided to shelve the production. Seems a little crazy as there was continued interest worldwide in the cartridge, BUT this is the situation. As a Benz owner, I am disappointed, however, it is time to move on. Lyra and others beckon........

No big deal , move on to better sounding cartridges from Lyra and Dynavector :-)