The Artesian Builds controversy appears to be headed for a happy ending for angry customers who lost their PC builds when the company collapsed. Custom PC maker PowerGPU has stepped in and will make 50 PCs for buyers impacted by the closure.
For those who don’t know, PC builder Artesian Builds and the streaming channel have faced backlash after changing the rules of a competition at the last minute and refusing to give the prize to the winner. Streamer kiapiaa won the award but was denied her by the company because her Twitch analytics were not high enough. She called out Artesian Builds for their business practices, and other streamers came forward with stories of bad experiences with the company.
Despite an apology, the damage was done and Artesian Builds could not survive the effects. Sponsors like NICKMERCS spoke out against the company, and others like OTK parted ways with it. There was no turning back and Artesian Builds ceased all business activities, saying: “We regret to inform you that we are freezing/suspending all activities effective immediately. Analysis is under way by an external lawyer for [reorganization] to ensure fair treatment of customers, creditors and employees. We expect more information by the end of the month.”
The real losers in the controversy are the employees who lost their jobs and the customers who are left without the builds they ordered. At least there is some light at the end of the tunnel for the customers, because PowerGPU will build 50 PCs for them. The company has set up a donation fund and several manufacturers are already on board. It will also contribute $25 to the fund from every PC sold over the next month.
Corresponding Jake lucky“After the dire situation at Artesian Builds left hundreds of customers without their PC builds and laid off dozens of employees.@PowerGPU announced they will build 50 PCs to give back to those the company has wronged.”
While PowerGPU’s gesture will go a long way in fixing things, it won’t be enough for all affected customers. Hopefully at some point the others will find a way to get their money back or get their builds.