I've been following this and the ramifications are much broader than many think. Being the largest of the big box retailers would seem to be a bragging point, but the problem lies in the overhead used to run these stores. There really isn't much markup on 90% of stuff sold at these places, and not a lot of people run to GC for a $30,000 Gibson. So until they can learn how to reduce the costs of all those hands on, free shipping, special items, and blowouts they'll have problems. Also be aware that MF is affiliated with GC, which = more overhead. And the biggest problem will be now that the premier products can't be found in 99% of the Mom&Pops every time a large box goes tit's up, so does the costs for these premium instruments.
Years ago M&P used to be able to handle the stocking costs levied by Gibson, Fender, etc.. Today M&P can't afford the 1/4 mil investment yearly so they abandon the line. When they abandon the line they also abandon the low cost goods the manufacture has to offer, such as Squire and Epiphone. You can't have one without the other.