I don't think Meridian insisting that your first port of call is via a premium partner is anything to do with their financial position good or bad.

It's quite simple. If you need assistance, you deal with your premium partner or an alternative premium partner who can help. If the query needs escalating you then deal with the most appropriate people. If your premium partner cannot answer the query and does not escalate, then find yourself a new premium partner who will happily assist. Those on this forum have a good track record for fulfilling ones needs.

Meridian owner since 1992
Prime & PSU, Focal Elear headphones, Roon (ROCK 8Gi5 NUC), Explorer 1 & 2, F80. 200/203, various Sonos (via Roon).