I've been on and off these forums for a fair few years now that they are more of an enabler then a sales tool... [It is difficult supplying 40mm edges at 2lb 7oz finished and fully dressed all the time
]
I dont like jumping onto threads saying wanted for X pounds a bat or something similar.... I dont see the point in that....
For those that predominantly do web based sales the forum is a place where people can come and have a look at you other then your website... if you contribute to the forum, like Roco says, it shows people what you are like, what you potentially know etc. That said I do most of that via Norbs but hey I've been Norbs on the forums for years so more then comfortable with that...
There are loads of bat making threads and what if scenarios [profiles, pressing handles willow etc etc] that other bat makers can get involved in if they wish to without being sponsors that will give them exposure on here... They either dont know this place exists, dont have the time, dont have a reason to do it, chose not to....
So i think it is down them really not us