I've agreed with much of what you've said in this thread Paul, but have to say on the point of pads I do disagree.
I can see why GM need a wide range of pad ranges, they're stocked by the high st likes of John Lewis/Sports Direct, to large specialist chains such as Decathlon through to the smaller specialists (who will be very much top end) and the bigger cricket specialists such as Owzat who will cater for a broad spectrum of customers.
It helps that their pads are non-range specific, and tie in nicely with any bat. Other competitors have 12+ pads. Salix cater to a much different client, with a more niche appeal, hence a lower need for a wide range of products and pricepoints.