I received the bmi email regarding this as well. I truly find little value in Avios since my main need for travel is TATL and I have NO interest in paying $400+ in YQ when that's almost a fully paid coach ticket.
HOWEVER, if bmi keeps its award chart past the date Avios become transferable, this will open up a whole new set of opportunities for the 200K+ Avios sitting in my family account. ^