Ladies, I think it's very unfortunate that CS/QC issues have been posted on other forums, yet not here?? This thread should be utilized for that very purpose. Anyway, I'll start!
Black and grey matte
The difference between the two, imo is very significant. I was led to believe that they were of the same durability, and thickness.....and they are NOT! The grey showed signs of wear, almost immediately on the corners. Not 100% sure, but I do think that my black matte is prob from when Jackie had the workshop in Spain. This may explain the difference in some of the current leathers compared to back then, of which I am eternally grateful for, as it is such a hardy leather for travel. The bag may lack colour, but it's destructiblity knows no bounds!
Drawstrings
The drawstrings on my TMA have split which is disappointing, maybe the edges could actually be stitched rather than glued, which would keep them intact, as they do see alot of action. Not sure if the new ones already have this?
Fiamma Red AP
Again, this is very delicate, after a few uses the leather showed up scratches, and wear on the corners pretty quickly. I have a real Hate/Hate relationship with the zipper pulls, on both the red and my mottled silver AP.....too stiff and they come off easily, and I'm not heavy-handed! Maybe use stronger rings? DIY job fixed that pronto.
Customer Service
After noticing my TMA came without a label, I contacted BE to request a label, thinking I could just glue one in.

However was told they had to be sewn in, after exchanging emails, photos, and t/calls I requested this be done, courtesy of BE (although my word should have been taken!) Shipping costs were covered both ways, and bag sent back to the workshop in Italy. Very prompt, took 2 weeks altogether. I was a happy bunny!
Packaging
As others have stated, I think their packaging
definately needs an overhaul, especially at this price point. The hardware being covered, to avoid scratches on the leather. The bag shrink-wrapped then placed in a dustbag, with much sturdier boxes. I think AP's should come standard with a dustbag, I recieved one with one AP, but not the other. I do think they too should be sent in boxes, rather than cheap brown paper. Seriously, my DVD's that I order from overseas have come better packaged, and shipping is much cheaper!
Concerns
One of the things that has stood out for me lately, is hearing about the disappointment among customers, mainly in which the
way Jackie has dealt with their issues. This is in addition to the quality of the bags not living up to their expectations, and the hype surrounding it, or receiving the wrong order. Whilst any discounts or freebies given are discretionary, which she is fully entitled to do, it would be condusive for BE to be more
consistent, whether you're a one-off or a frequent buyer. But, I can understand how it would leave a bad taste with some, as it would be deemed unfair, and some ladies have NOT been dealt with in this manner, which BE needs to sort out.
BE are still relatively small and it's pretty obvious the majority of their business is from the PF, so they can't afford to lose valuable custom, especially thru these economic times, and they ARE rough!