Hornby Price increases | Is this the end of affordable models?

[@Maplevee1]

In my opinion it feels like Hornby are their own worse enemy, they release a new scale wanting to be accessible to more casual people but then up the prices on everything else to compensate when they shot themselves in the foot with how they treated other manufacturers around making models on that scale, which reduced the range a move not friendly to consumers. They focus only on big flashy models at high prices it seems half of the new features work poorly like the new tender coupling and removable lamp irons/lamps. And neglect the option to release older models at a cheaper price to widen the available range, something they could do with a number of older items they have made over the years that still could hold up to today's standard if classed as railroad range instead.

[@YorkshireRailways]

Hi Maplevee thanks for the comment! I completely forgot to take into account the impact them spending millions on TT:120 would have had and the slow rate they are releasing models as well as the new tooling for that scale surly has cost more than they’ve sold. But they seem to be persevering with it. I agree, was it Heljan that were going to make a dive into TT but got bullied out of it by Hornby as they seem to want exclusive locomotive production? May be wrong with that but I know someone was going to release some locos and then didn’t. Yeah does seem that a few of Hornby’s new features haven’t hit the ground running and only time will tell on the lifespan of the steam generator technology lasts. And again I agree as I stated at the end of the video, there’s nothing wrong with respraying a good model even if it’s dated so long as it’s released at a good price and in the correct range. Unlike the class 92 I reviewed recently. Again thanks for the comment and hope you enjoyed the video 😊👍

[@trevorbell3571]

​@@YorkshireRailwaysTT20 has proved to be a good investment, the TT train set is their best selling set in all scales. It could save the business.

[@jonathanmillar1975]

I struggle with this concept of budge or cheaper models. Hear me out. A lot of Hornby's recent diesel releases like the class 66 and 47's are old Lima tooling with some upgrades/updates. There is nothing wrong with these as I still have some of the original Lima models and at the time IMO the Lima models were better than the Hornby ones. My go-to was always Lima for loco's. Then Bachmann came along with a class 37 and the stunning class 66, which had lights, can motors, and all wheel drive lots of separately fitted parts, etc. Hornby was still putting their ringfield motors in locomotives. Eventually, Hornby did step up with their class 56 and 60. If I were to start railway modelling now and had attended a few exhibitions and saw the like of the Accurascale 66 I be, this is great. I'll get one of those. However, I maybe on a tight budget and suddenly realise these are maybe a little unaffordable. So maybe I would look at second-hand or a new so-called budget locomotive. My question is, what features would I be prepared to accept or be omitted? For me, I would still like to see some form of directional lighting and a decent motor (is all wheel drive not something you should expect on a budget locomotive?) What about NEM pockets and couplings, flush glazing, intricate liveries, etched parts, and separately fitted parts. Then, we get onto the concept of DC v DCC. To me, DCC is a luxury, and that does not say budget model. I have a reasonable good budget but can not afford to go DCC unless anyone has any ideas to do this cheaply!

[@andrewwalker8382]

I only buy secondhand. Solves the problem at least for me. And I only buy Bachmann. Unlike Hornby there is rarely a duff model

[@wealdhurstmodelrailway9666]

Correct. I rarely buy Hornby second hand now after my dreadful self-destructing Schools class.

[@YorkshireRailways]

Hi Andrew, thanks for the comment. Interesting you only go for the second hand models. Not wanting to be to intrusive but is this down to not been fussed about like for like realism of the newer models or is the price just to much to take the risk on? Or are you a second hand collector for doing lots of research into a model before buying and then getting a great bargain on the second hand market? Be interested to know. And with more newer manufacturers coming into the scene can the likes of an Accurascale pre owned model not tempt you from the Bachmann brand loyalty? Again thanks for the comment 😊👍

[@andrewwalker8382]

@@YorkshireRailways Hi. For me it’s two reasons why I buy second hand. 1. Bottom line, price. 2. There are so many models, not in current ranges, that I like to pick and choose whenever I stumble across them. The premium price paid for a bells and whistles new model simply does add up when I can get a model 1/4 the price which is only marginally less detailed. And I’m petrified I will break the news models. Example: I bought a bachmann class 25 for 45.00 which is DCC fitted secondhand. It runs a dream. It may have less detail but who notices from a few feet away viewing distance?

[@YorkshireRailways]

@@andrewwalker8382 Hi Andrew thanks for getting back to me. Great to hear your opinions on reason to go for second hand models over new and some very great points made 😊👍

[@andrewrice6596]

I totally agree with you about certain shops increasing the price of their existing stock. I noticed " K " down in Cornwall put the prices up on their stock of coaches.

[@YorkshireRailways]

Hello Andrew, thanks for the comment. I didn’t want to name and shame but I did see that, but they aren’t the only ones. However it should be said there are many of retailers who haven’t done that and are still selling at a good discount 😊👍

[@jimbo7788]

It's not a hobby any more .Its a one upmanship game for those old men with deep Pockets. There is a cadre in the Hobby who demand an ncreasingly insane level of what will be totally invisible detail which comes with massive increasing costs . Go to any model rail show and other than kids visiting with parents , it is largely old , well to do, wrong side of 50 who are not hard to spot who are driving this upwards spiral

[@fatwalletboy2]

Dont be daft

[@jimbo7788]

@@fatwalletboy2 Seriously? ...Its now a hobby for one upmanship and deep Pockets . I,m just not picking on Model Railways ..Even then the Model Kit market is going the same way . KZbin is awash with so called modellers, railway and Airfix when in fact they are just assemblers , no modelling skills required . But seriously, is a bunch of Johnny No Mates on KZbin the best best way to attract anyone to a hobby even if they could afford the cost ??

[@YorkshireRailways]

Hi Jimbo, I don’t think it’s quite a hobby just for the old mean with deep pockets. I agree with if you’re interested in trains running the likelihood is you don’t need an insanely detailed version. However those that have a depot layout where trains will be slow running or static I can see why the more realistic detail appeals. I think everyone should just go for what they can afford or focus on saving for one model and not have multiple a year. As for the model shows having visited my first at key model world live with my partner I can say granted there were many of the age 50+ but I saw plenty of people in their 20s and 30s without kids enjoying the layouts to. I think that many of the younger crowd are just happy watching modellers on KZbin instead of joining their local clubs ect. As well as I’ve seen many in my age bracket down my local shops so we are here just might not be out as much at events. Again thanks for the comment and thanks for watching 😊👍

[@Trainskitsetc]

Prices do rise. They always have and always will. Hornby, ready to run even, and brand new ready to run at that is not the only way to do the hobby. Tune out of the youtubers that pretty much only show you the latest most expensive fancy models and get back in touch with the reality the vast majority of modellers have always faced of buying second hand, second best, or making it themselves.

[@YorkshireRailways]

Hello and thank you for the comment. Yes it’s true there are some great second hand models out there I have many in my collection. But I’ve also come at some duds that I got off EBay. I guess the advantage of buying pre owned from a shop is usually they will test their locos whilst oh are there so you can make sure you are happy and some may even negotiate the price should you not be 100% for their asking price vs the models performance. Again thank you for the comment and hope you enjoyed the video 😊👍

[@jonathanmillar1975]

I have no intention of buying TT gauge as I have an extensive 00 collection. Likewise I have nothing against Hornby's new venture and the modellers who chose this scale. However, I do feel that us 00 gauge modellers are taking the financial pain for their venture into a new gauge. I have no hard evidence of this just my opinion. I don't think the hit is just financial. IMO this is why new 00 gauge models are taking so long to come to market. TT is been prioritised by Hornby. There are obviously limited production slots at the factories in China. I would have more respect for Hornby and their price rises if they brought some production back to the UK. I am buying less and less from Hornby nowadays and only really if no one else produces the model I want like say the class 67 and the DRAX biomass wagons. This then gets me onto the rant about second hand items. I missed the first run on the DRAX wagons and have tried to by second-hand ones, but people on Ebay just take the pi**! It is quite clear people bulk brought these at the time and had no intention of ever getting them out of the boxes. They have just sat on them and now wanting £100 for a pair when they probably purchased them new for around £50 at the time. This then leads on to all manufacturers doing small runs of everything. I would happily buy 15 to 20 wagons to make a rack. I like to run as near as possible prototype length trains but the cost is getting too much now. Some of the above a bit off topic but great video and pretty much agree with what you said.

[@YorkshireRailways]

Hi Jonathan, thank you for the comment. Definitely a safe space to rant here and I’m with you my collection of OO gauge models isn’t worth getting rid to go down the route of TT. And it is starting to seem like the investment Hornby has put into the scale is being fuelled by their OO models. And yes imagine that they are focusing on expanding the TT range quicker due to there not being a lot of models out for the scale. But some models are now going to seem so outdated when they come out of production is it going to be worth buying them? Probably not. And yes Scalpers are cretins, but unfortunately it’s people who are so desperate to get the models that makes it worth while doing it. If everyone spoke with their wallet and didn’t pay they’d ridiculous prices on EBay they would soon lower the price and stop doing it. But unfortunately it’s something that will never happen. The only thing you can hope for is someone like Accurascale or Cavalex or Revolution trains the smaller boys on the scene make some for their ranges and that way there would be more competition as well as more chance to get some. I think when it comes to manufacturers doing limited runs it’s to make sure they all sell but surly someone in their accounts department can see how quickly models are selling to pass on to the manufacturing team and say maybe do another run of these as they’ve sold X amount in a short space of time. I mean this is how we look at things in my company but I guess not every business is the same. Again thank you for the comment and hope you enjoy the rest of my content 😊👍

[@jonathanmillar1975]

​@@YorkshireRailwaysLike alot of people on You Tube I don't want to see Hornby go busy and just want them to make great models at an affordable price. When they are on their A game they can make super models. I feel they may have got a bit scared of the new boys in town like Accurascale, Revolution Trains, Cavalex and even Dapol although they are not new to the market. It is either they don't want the competition or cannot compete due to the internal structure / workings at Hornby. The Class 67 new tooling not the Lima retooled version is a great model and one of my favourite and I have several in my collection. Saying that the retooled Lima version is also a great model. However, compare this to Dapols Class 68 and it is not on the same league. The 68's paint job is stunning and there is thing like warning labelling all over the underframe and body, they have even modelled rivets on the disc brakes. At the moment the Dapol Class 68 has to be my favourite locomotive. Have to admit I have fall big time for the Accurascale Class 66's which is a very close second. Since getting my first Accurascale 66 had a bit of a spending spree and now up to 8 in my collection and preordered 5 of the second batch. Good job they are not due until 1Q 2025 as need to start saving to pay for them.

[@clivengauge]

Great video true what you are saying I went n gauge lot more locos and wagons to buy then tt and was not happy at time you could only buy on line I like to see what they look like up close

[@marciebalme588]

fully agree

[@YorkshireRailways]

@@jonathanmillar1975 Hi Jonathan yes I to don’t want to see Hornby go out of business but it’s hard to justify some of their prices when they have quality issues such as the new black 5’s drawbar coupling. It is making me look elsewhere for models. I’ve never purchased from Accurascale until this year and what’s tempted me is high detail at reasonable prices and life time warranty. However I really would like a Dapol class 68 it’s on my birthday/Christmas list. And the Accurascale class 66 is amazing I have two of the Hattons and they were great just have niggles which AS seem to have fixed. Will get my hands on one when I see the right livery. Enjoy your models 😊👍

[@Manchild-o7d]

Far too many 'professional' youtubers focussing on high production quality videos and headlining the latest and 'greatest' products, showing off their huge expensive high tech layouts as if that's the only way one can approach the hobby. It's no wonder many people feel they're excluded, but on the other hand we shouldn't be so stupid as to follow the direction of so-called 'infuencers' who are mainly in it to make more money to spend on their own lifestyles even though they usually appear to be comfortably off already. We need to wise up. There are many dealers of second hand and new old stock models out there selling at more acceptable prices. I haven't bought a brand new loco' in years. I have an embarassingly large collection now and in my humble opinion they're all of good quality and would cost an absolute fortune to acquire today brand new. I'm also not convinced that Hornby are the Bête noire that many like to make them out to be. All of the top manufacturers charge an arm and a leg these days and often therir products aren't up to snuff. It's not just Hornby. Both Bachmann and Heljan have produced some wonderful models on the one hand, and some absolute crap on the other. It's up to the customer to be discerning, and if they do receive a sub standard offering it should be returned immediately. As for super detail, how much of it can you see from 2-3 feet away? We don't all need to see the drivers' boot prints on the footplate or read the pressure gauges in the cab. There may be some obsessive types who do, but I susupect they're in the minority. Most of us would probably be happy with something that looks reasonable and runs nicely. There are various ways to enjoy this wonderful hobby and we can all enjoy it in our own. We don't need a stable full of £300 locomotives or a 30ft long layout with every electronic device known to man. Box rooms, shelves and garages can all make great layout locations depending on your circumstances. Just grab a few bits and pieces and start your journey. There's a lot of helpful information online and plenty of useful books available second hand if necessary. Have a go. You never know how things will work out, but there's lots of fun to be had without bankrupting yourself...

[@YorkshireRailways]

Hello, thanks for the comment. I think you make some really valid points. And definitely there’s plenty of ways to enjoy this hobby without bankrupting yourself. Main thing to do is as long as you have a loco and some track enjoy running your trains 😊👍

[@shakeyhandsshedmodelrailwa2494]

no you are not being forced out of the hobby , you are being priced out of keeping up with the joneses paying astronomical prices for cheap chinese shit , yesterday i bought an old margate fowler 2-6-4 tank for 30 quid great condition good runner will bennefit from a service , easy to service , 30 quid , job done

[@YorkshireRailways]

Hello and thank you for the comment. I think that is the trouble for many although they aren’t being priced out of the hobby it can seem that way trying to keep up with trends. Hope you are enjoying your new engine 😊👍

[@CliveTuck]

I will never buy Hornby again. Over priced for a hit and miss level of quality. Will now stick with my current stable of models - have what I need. R.I.P Hornby.

[@YorkshireRailways]

Hi Clive, I think hit and misses in models just depends on the Loco it’s not just Hornby I know there’s a few other manufacturers that make duds it’s all if your paying an arm and a leg for them. Thanks for the comment 😊👍

[@HighFell]

It’s not actually an across the board 10% rise, in many cases there have been no price rises or 3-5%. The rises have been targeted to ensure the cost to manufacture is reflected in the wholesale and thus RRP. Relative to wages, the hobby is cheaper now than it was when it was arguably one of the biggest hobbies out there. That’s before you have even factored in the transformation in technology and detail in models. Just to put a myth regarding TT:120 to bed, Heljan at no time developed anything more than a 3D image of a OO class 31 with TT coupling on, 10 mins work. TT:120 is a long term investment by Hornby and popularity (12,000 locos, 48,000 rolling stock items sold is proof of that) confirms it has a place alongside all the other scales. Hornby are definitely looking to the future and that’s great for everyone in the Hobby. Good points on living within our means, as a society we do buy a lot of pointless tat, singing wall trout etc 🤣 I have noticed a drop in number of people ‘making’ things, chequebook modelling will always be expensive. As a kid I would get a new loco at Christmas as combined Christmas and Birthday present. So right on sticking to your guns on enjoying the hobby 👍

[@YorkshireRailways]

Hello and thank you for your comment and insight you bring up some very interesting points. And yeah I think there’s many out there trying to keep up when really we can enjoy the hobby at our own pace and we don’t need to bankrupt ourselves 😊👍

[@MistaMatthews]

Moved to O Gauge and running on a club layout. Can’t afford to build my own layout and managed to get two Dapol O gauge locos from rails for £250. It’s a bit mad when O gauge locos are cheaper than Hornby’s. Just compare the prices of Hornby’s 08 to Dapol’s!

[@YorkshireRailways]

Hello and thank you for the comment, glad you have found a place where you can run your models. Yes quite astonishing that you can get two O gauge locos for the price of one larger OO model. What locos did you manage to get hold of from rails? They do have some good bargains, I usually venture down once a month once pay day comes so if you see me feel free to say Hi should you wish 😊👍

[@MistaMatthews]

@@YorkshireRailways to be fair, it was a 14xx and a 57xx which are relatively small locos. But I can’t have the layout I want anyway, so I’ve figured that I’m happy with a nice display shelf and taking them down the club when I’ve got time. I’m way down south on the coast near Brighton, so unfortunately have not been able to visit ROS in person. I’ll find an excuse one day!

[@farric1]

Same here - I bought a Dapol O scale 14xx and a Jinty for less than the price of Hornby's Black 5. I only have a OO scale layout and intend to run them on a club layout. ​@@MistaMatthews

[@grrfy]

same, Early 08 and a Jinty.

[@JohnReall]

I feel the same way in the States. Who wants a 40 dollar box car.

[@Shipwright1918]

Depends on the scale. In O $40 would be okay for a scale boxcar, most are hovering around the $100 range. For a traditional semi scale, they can be had for $25 if you go to Menards.

[@YorkshireRailways]

Hello John, amazed to find my video has reached all the way to the states but glad you’ve enjoyed the video. And it does seem a global issue. However I think these prices will be here to stay. 😊👍

[@JohnReall]

@@Shipwright1918 I do HO scale myself.

[@Shipwright1918]

Cool beans, used to do it with I was a kid, but the bigger gauges got a hold of me.

[@davidwest6962]

Hornby have priced myself and others out of the Hornby market . Compare Hornby with Dapol, Accurascal, and to a lesser measure Bachmann prices. I can't help feeling that the introduction of TT hasn't helped their financial wowes. This isn't meant as a dig against those who love TT, its just costly.

[@YorkshireRailways]

Hi David thanks for the comment. And yes I can’t help but think their TT venture has cost them dearly and unfortunately to recoup some production costs of the new scale OO modellers have not got to fit the bill. Which is just wrong but we as the customer only need speak with our wallets. Thanks for the comment and hope you enjoyed the video 😊👍

[@sparkshot]

Another area I think Hornby went wrong was their seeming abandonment of Railroad range. New releases are rare, also initially they were still older early.90's toolings or whatever but then they retooled them even n bumped the price up. I mean, just bring them back, not everyone is obsessed with the hyper detail and you can always detail them yourself.

[@YorkshireRailways]

I think the trouble Hornby have with the railroad range is some of the ancient tooling has crept into the railways range and is trying to be flogged at a higher price. All you need to do is go watch my recent review of Hornby’s Class 92 🤮 however I do think some models if they are put correctly in the railroad range would fly out. I suspect the new HST will but would have been better in a classic livery.

[@sparkshot]

@@YorkshireRailways They should have kept ths B17 & A1 etc with its older chunkier valve gear n kept the price to £50 ish or in today's money I guess £80 ish, instead they upgraded the valve gear and mechanism n paint etc n price to boot. Whole point was to have a cheap n simple option but they too fixated kn "Detail detail detail" that only baldies can afford! 😆

[@cathybrind2381]

@@sparkshot Knock it off. We "baldies" have plenty of inflated costs to deal with on our constrained incomes. Don't kid yourself we're all cruising around in our limos and taking holidays in luxury resorts. Enough of that ageist BS.

[@wallsknob]

As a former retailer in a different industry, a Christian store offering Bibles, books, music, gifts, &c., passing on price increases on existing stock was a subject much discussed. If an item that was normally stocked has its price increased, when it's sold it's replacement would be sold to us based on the new retail price. Is the choice made to have less money available and reduce the number of items restocked. It's not a simple, uncomplicated subject.

[@YorkshireRailways]

Hello and thank you for the comment. I guess it’s what others do. I too come from a retail background and whenever we have a price increase on the more expensive premium items we sell off all remaining stock at a promotion with the original price. However smaller items that sell on a daily basis will fluctuate as and when so I can see both sides. 😊👍

[@gpnorman9453]

If you worked in retail you will know that you cannot have 2 tier pricing for old and new stock especially if it is bar-coded on a stock system. Once a price has been set by H then that gets cascaded down to everything on that SKU. I worked in a Model Shop and these price increases were a pain in the hole as everything had to be relabelled with the new price.

[@YorkshireRailways]

Hello, thanks for the comment. Coming from a retail background certainly in a larger corperation where you have multiple stores and a head office the old stock fluctuated between the dictation of price increases nothing really you can do. However I have worked in independently owned stores where if the manufacture gave notice of a price increase then the store would sell all current stock at the lowered price and increase when the new stock came in, never on the shelf at the same time. It does happen in some businesses.

[@JohnDavies-cn3ro]

Personally speaking, it depends what you want. In terms of new rtr I'm afraid the answer - so far as I am concerned - is 'yes, it is the end.' I'd like a Brighton K3, a T3 and possibly a Wainwright D - all lovely engines, but at £200.00 or so a piece, that is way, way more than I feel able to pay. The Bachmann narrow gauge models, priced at £2.00 a millimetre are even more so. Answer? Second hand, yes, or alternatively build your own, using cheap proprietary mechanisms and home built bodies. Its fun, ensures that you have exactly the model you want, and above all else, have the satisfaction of achieving something which probably is unique to you.

[@YorkshireRailways]

Hi John thank you for the comment. It is that way unfortunately with newer models you’ll be looking £150 plus. It is just the day and age we live in, however I think many see second hand as oh I’ll be getting an really old tool loco and sometimes that is the case but there are plenty out there of more modern tooled locos that have been traded in just have to wait and see what crops up maybe a weekly or daily browse on the web to get the model you want. I think the reason many don’t build their own models from scratch is purely ability. Some don’t know where to start and therefore give up before trying. However it could come back with the introduction of home 3D printers the world is your oyster. Again thank you for the comment 😊👍

[@Georgeconna32]

And they wonder why they ain't selling stuff. Most people have too much stock these days, I will stick to 2nd hand.

[@YorkshireRailways]

Hi George and thank you for the comment. Interesting you think people have to much stock, could be they aren’t selling but I can never find enough of the stuff I want 😂 thank you for the comment again

[@columnedfox5508]

the last models i bought was the 60th anniversary celebratory Edition Big Boy from 2019 by Rivarossi and from Hornby, the A2/3 Edward Thompson and Sir Nigel Gresley trainset in 2020 which mine edition number 0625, I have no plans on buying anymore trains in the future, but mainly just track to replace my old load I had since the late 1990's early 2000nds...

[@YorkshireRailways]

Glad to know people out there are just getting what they want and don’t feel the need to keep up with trends. Hope your models are working great and more importantly you’re enjoying them! I two have the Sir Nigel Gresley train set and think it’s great, need to double check which number mine is though as I don’t know it off the top of my head 😊👍

[@davetedd3633]

Hornby's prices are ridiculous! Their latest HST is nearly £400 yet it's looking quite dated with awful mould lines around the cab. Even if you say it's £200 for one motorised power car (which is still very expensive) it then means the dummy car is also £200!!! You can buy sound fitted locos for less than that. Another manufacturer is bound to produce a better HST at a more realistic price!

[@YorkshireRailways]

Hi Dave thanks for the comment. I will admit I to was scheptical about paying a lot for the Hornby new tooled HST however after taking the plunge with a pre owned one I can honestly say they are worth the money. Solid reliable runner, heavy, tons of detail and modern lighting features. I haven’t noticed the mould lines on my example and have seen production images where you can. But images of their newly released LNER version seem like there aren’t there so maybe it is just the production images that show this. If in doubt pop down to a retailer that stocks them and have a look first hand before taking the plunge. Thanks again for the comment 😊👍

[@davetedd3633]

@@YorkshireRailways I have about 10 of their 'full fat' HSTs including 3 of the 'retooled' 21 pin with motorised fans. Apart from a few small tweaks, it's essentially the same model released almost 18yrs ago. It's good enough but not up to modern levels of detail. The cab mould lines are disguised on some liveries, but it's quite noticeable on the more plain liveries eg blue Pullman and gner. Even if you got a good one it's still not worth £400. You could buy two Accurascale super detailed, 2024 designed locos for many ££s less! I suspect Hornby may struggle to shift the HSTs at their current price, but maybe their plan was always to discount them, making them look like a good deal. Mike Ashley (aka Mr Sportsdirect) is currently advising Hornby. I doubt we'll see permanent 70% off Hornby anytime soon, but Mr Ashley clearly knows customers like to think they're getting a bargain, so I expect we will see more sales.

[@jimperkins2446]

inflation is not 10%...just put greed. Hornby will go bust within 18 months and so will Accurascale,not enough profit in the low volumes the sell.

[@keithdoherty8809]

Given that Hornby produce in relatively low numbers in China and are heavily reliant on shipping costs and foreign suppliers elsewhere other than a small design team , they are at the behest of several manufacturing suppliers (and are rather opaque on who these might be !) they have little control of costs . Prices of shipping in my own business is about $203 per Kilo ! Or Upwards of £9000 for a forty foot ! Just before COVID rates were about £3500 for a container ! Wonder why pries of goods have risen ! BTW those exclude insurances as well and as you might know there are a few issues particularly on the shorter Suez route at the moment . Now are Hornby price gouging probably some , however frankly i think they also have a strategy problem with trying to produce super detailed products - DO we need sprung buffers , do we value smoke generators (they aren’t a new concept and have failed before), do we really need cab and coach lighting or even sound - HONESTLY ! No what Hornby need is to supply and range of entry level products adequately detailed and a price point of railroad - INDEED they should be focused on Railroad - thats where they make revenue.

[@YorkshireRailways]

Hi Jim, granted as of this year it has been going up slower but Hornby recon it’s since 2022 which hit a high at 11.1% granted I could be mistake on this I only did a brief bit of research before making the video. I don’t think greed is a factor personally, just bigger companies have bigger overheads. And I don’t see Accurascale going out of business. Smaller companies tend to do small batches to make sure they sell and get profit. Hornby I can see more been in more trouble as they have thrown a ton of money into developing TT:120 scale which although proving popular does seem like their OO prices are funding R&D for TT. Only time will tell. Thanks for the comment 😊👍

[@myles7522]

Sadly I stopped buying new trains a few years ago, mainly that the prices had become unjustifiably pricy….

[@YorkshireRailways]

Hello and thank you for the comment, seems many in the hobby are doing this and either going without or buying on the second hand market 😊👍

[@BattleshipOrion]

Welcome to one of the signs of the recession. No it ain't the end of affordable models. They'll be back. As for now, I suggest that y'all look into what's happening logistically that may be affecting prices. Hint: ships now go around two land-masses that prior were bi-passed.

[@YorkshireRailways]

Hello and thank you for the comment. Yes I think a lot of people forget about a few conflicts that started us on this path or inflation and that they are still going on which rightly as you say is causing ships with the containers to take longer routes to get to the UK 😊👍

[@wealdhurstmodelrailway9666]

Hornby are not going to recoup 7 million by increasing prices. They need to release more and make enough stock to ensure prolonged sales. I am in the automotive aftermarket. We can source an entire range of product from source for a complicated car parc in weeks. Why can't they produce plastic locos? My forte is inventory management and availability is key to growth. As for people losing their jobs, well in this case that should happen. Any company losing money needs to reshape its costs in order to survive. This isn't cloud cuckoo land, it is the real world of business. Sorry, its horrible, but that is what needs to happen.

[@YorkshireRailways]

Hello thanks for the comment. I think affordable models and plenty of them would definitely help their 7 million black hole. And maybe you do have a point as sad as it is to be made redundant you can’t make jobs in the future if you are out of business. Again thanks for the comment and hope you enjoyed the video 😊👍

[@sparkshot]

I've just been buying 2nd hand. In the early-mid 2000's I did buy almost only the then new 'Super Detailed' range which was basically the progenitor to modern RTR which in my view hasn't really improved much since. Now though, as the prices have literally 2 and 3-exed since around 2009 ish just no, especially with the quality control lottery.

[@YorkshireRailways]

Hello and thank you for the comment. I think for some second hand is the way to go and especially buying from a brick and mortar retailer you have the added assurance it’s tested. In some cases you can have it tested whilst you are in the building to make sure you are happy and if not most are willing to negotiate down the price. Thanks again for the comment and hope you enjoyed the video 😊👍

[@shinvelcro]

It is hard to feel sorry for hornby though. All through the lockdown they where blowing there trumpet at the there record sales and income. Then instead of trying to covert all them new users in to long term ones, they spend a ton of budget on getting TT out. So now you are adding more confusion to beginners on top of dcc. Then, in what seems like a move of spite, they start getting stuff out the door in the scale before other makers that announced a loco until they gave up, leaving it all to hornby. That being said, they have been the main gateway in to the hobby for decades, so if they keel over it will be dreadful for every one of us.

[@YorkshireRailways]

Hello and thank you for the comment, it is a very sit on the fence for me. They have obviously had a stellar year during lockdown and they’ve obvious invested heavily in bringing in a new scale that is more durable than N Gauge but can fit more into modern houses these days and it definitely should be commended. However the execution hasn’t been great, new realises are taking too long to see the shelves and the range therefore is lacking. And I think because of this investment and time scale to see revenue I think the OO gauge modellers are now having to fit the bill for this new venture. Again thanks for the comment 😊👍

[@markmclellan7146]

Silly prices and reliability across the hobby. I asked myself years ago, 'Do I really 'need' this?' The answer was no then and it still is. I got hooked for a bit...then I got out. Best decision I ever made.

[@YorkshireRailways]

Hi mark thanks for the comment. And I agree I think people do need to think do I need it but I get most hobby’s can become addictive my other interests was aquariums and Aquascaping and let me tell you that’s a way to burn some cash. However I’ve reevaluate my life since moving out and realised I don’t have time to look after aquariums but I do for trains so got rid of them and sticking to models. Again thanks for the comment 😊👍

[@markmclellan7146]

@@YorkshireRailways I respect your response and apologies if I sound harsh. I just got so exasperated sending locos back to retailers that were broken on arrival or simply did not function properly. Prices shot up during the pandemic and I had to stop there. Maybe building model kits is a good alternative? All the best 🙂🙏

[@YorkshireRailways]

@@markmclellan7146 didn’t think that at all so no drama. And as a man who also collect Lego as well, building model kits is great until you run out of shelf space but arranging them in a way you can buy more is all part of the fun 😂

[@markmclellan7146]

@@YorkshireRailways 100% 👍🙂

[@duncancampbell9490]

Twenty years ago I survived comfortably on half my current income. Poverty is a real problem in the UK - but these are a luxury item. The prices charged by the clearance "dealers" show how low the actual cost is a tiny proportion of the retail cost of the item. Sound fitted Bachmann for £180 - £210 isn't selling - because of the colour ? The only new function that has impressed me is the uncoupling system that has been released. Sadly not a simple retro fit.... Currently.

[@YorkshireRailways]

Hi Duncan,It is currently a scary unknown time for not just here in the Uk but definitely the way the government is going in the UK is stirring up a lot of anxiety for those on low incomes. And yes models are a luxury item but everyone deserves to be able to go to work for a living pay their bills and should have a little fun money left. At the moment that fun money wallet is growing ever smaller. Definitely a good way to be model savvy is to look for the bargains. Sometimes your favourite livery might just be discounted. The new uncoupling feature Bachmann is offering is great but definitely an expensive model to buy. However when other manufacturers start implementing it the competition will drive down cost. Thank you for the comment 😊👍

[@DangerAngelous]

Nah it's probably just the end of Hornby, which sad but nowadays with how many other manufacturers there are I think we'll be fine

[@YorkshireRailways]

Hello and thank you for the comment, it would be sad if Hornby did go out of business however with how many brands they own I think they will be fine but I guess time will tell 😊👍

[@DangerAngelous]

@@YorkshireRailways Ah that is a fair thought, I forgot that they own other Euro brands. Maybe instead they should sell those off if Hornby needs money

[@krazytroutcatcher]

I’ve been in the hobby for decades now, then returned around 6 years ago, and noticed a lot of changes in how the hobby works. Around the 80’s, we were limited in what could be purchased ready to run, out of the box that had any detailing, or even dimensionally correct, locos and stock looking more toy like, rather than authentic, so we had to rely on cottage industry manufacturers for extra detailing, chassis’s and wheels for some finesse. That kind of modelling wasn’t cheap, but could be done incrementally, and in one respect, easily done on a budget, unless you bought an etched brass kit from companies such as DJH. What we did build, was skills and patience, and not just rolling stock. What we have now is instant gratification, not a bad thing, I love it myself, and you can buy a finely detailed locomotive, wagon, or coaches straight out of the box, with no, or little need for extra detailing, but, you’re going to have to dig deeper into your pockets.

[@YorkshireRailways]

Hello and thank you for the comment! Interesting to know that back in the day things seemed simpler. I know Hornby has the railroad range but maybe there is a market for other companies to focus on making affordable less detailed models that will temp more beginners to the hobby but people can modify to make them more detailed through third party sellers. However I to do prefer the highly detailed ready to run models. But means I have to save more and really twist the mrs’s arm when I really want one 😂 again thanks for the comment 😊👍

[@krazytroutcatcher]

@@YorkshireRailways I cheat, even now my wife doesn’t really know what I’m buying, so for Accurascale I use monthly payments via Partialy to pay for locos, I notice Hornby do the same. The Railroad range would benefit from an aftermarket manufacturer making detail parts as they do for military and aviation kits. The Hornby J83 is one loco that could do with some aftermarket detailing, that spectacle plate has always irked me.

[@JPoulAndersson]

Good video many thanks for this take. Rgds. from Holland, Joachim

[@YorkshireRailways]

Hello Joachim, thank you for the kind words! Glad you enjoyed the video 😊👍

[@attercliffecentral3802]

Second hand market boom in time will burn out as prices rise with new to the point there is little to no price difference between new and used perhaps in some cases that has already happened. The hobby is not attracting enough young people into it to sustain large scale manufacturing once the well heeled customers are gone thats when reality will hit the main manufacturers - no customers. Hornby 's TT scale was a about creating a new market for them to fully control but there was a problem they didn't have the money to develop it why do I say that? The sudden very high price rises in 00 gauge was the giveaway a big gamble that they hoped would pay off it didn't . The mistake was not allowing retailers to sell it at the start only sold though Hornby restricting your customers choice of outlet is never a good idea then the sudden departure of Mr Kholer a sign the idea had gone south. Now Hornby are stuck with it . The final twist is Mike Ashley 10% share in Hornby he's waiting for his chance to buy Hornby but at a rock bottom price.

[@YorkshireRailways]

Hello thank you for the comment. I think it can be off of EBay and Facebook market place people do ask too much for a second hand locomotives however some retailers have some great offerings and you can get them tested on site to make sure it works properly and you’re happy before purchase. I think you’re right about TT:120 it maybe was a risky mistake making it an exclusive product rather than letting retailers get the words out. I do think there are younger folk in the hobby but many buy from retailers websites instead of going down to store. But I guess only time will tell if Hornby make it out the 7 million black hole or sink. Again thanks for the comment and hope you enjoyed the video 😊👍

[@marciebalme588]

yes the hobby is pricing my husband out of it ,

[@YorkshireRailways]

Hello and thank you for the comment. Such a shame this is coming for many. However hopefully he can carry on with sticking with the locos he has or buying pre owned 😊👍

[@gpnorman9453]

Sheeet he will be back in taking over the TV next!!

[@RichardBCumbrianModelRailways]

3d printer go brrrr

[@YorkshireRailways]

3D printers probably are a good way of saving money on wagons and scenery if you have the talent to use them 😊👍

[@RichardBCumbrianModelRailways]

@@YorkshireRailways Not sure about talent haha. current learning loop consists of trying something in the slicer, it goes right or wrong, if wrong i take a photo and show it to chatgpt 4o for suggestions 🙈and try the recommendations.

[@YorkshireRailways]

@@RichardBCumbrianModelRailways great that there is a community out there to help improve how you 3D print stuff, but yes most easy way to learn is to do and trial and error and learn from your mistakes

[@richardmarshall4322]

I think a lot of the problem is the models themselves. If you are old enough think back to the 70s and 80s. Hornby churned out thousands of rubbish models. Very low production costs and decent profit. We would all drool over the likes of Fleishman and the like and have to be content with super detailing rubbish like Hornby Hymeks 37s and 47s etc. Steam outline were also poor, tender drive with the mandatory 'wobble'. Overpriced garbage. Airfix and Mainline were no better although they did more detailing. Lima also poor. Crappy pancake motors and dreadful mouldings. Lets fast forward. Todays models increadible. Place a Lima Deltic along side an Accurascale one, unimaginable 30 years ago. The point i am making is todays models are very expensive to develop and produce. Hornby are a low volume producer compared with yesteryear, they are going to struggle I think they will all struggle in the coming years. To fork out the best part of a grand to buy a sound fitted diesel and a rake of coaches isn't affordable for many people. Many youngsters don't do 'trains'. I think the hobby is probably propped up by the 50 plus generation with disposable income. It doesn't fair well for the future of the hobby.

[@YorkshireRailways]

Hi Richard, certainly get your point paying upwards of £500 to £1k is a lot for a locomotive with full rake of wagons or coaches. However this is sort of my point towards the end of the video. Getting the loco is one thing, but you don’t need to get the full rake straight away, buy one wagon or coach a month, spreads the cost and eventually you will have the full rake. No maybe Hornby will struggle with out-pricing their customers but maybe they need to go back to cheaper less detailed models and bring that gap to getting people into the hobby to decided whether they are happy running trains or can move on if they want the highly detailed stuff from other manufacturers. And I don’t think it’s that the young ones don’t like trains, I’m in my 20s and have always had an interest in the hobby, dipped out when I was in my teens but got back to it during Covid. And I think the reason we get put in a box of there’s not enough young folk in the hobby is because we do tend to buy online and keep it more hidden from our friends through fear of what others will think of us, which is a shame which is why I’m making more of an active effort to go down to stores instead of buying from their websites and talking to the staff and others in the shops as well as not been afraid of what my friends will think of my hobby which I can honestly say they haven’t made fun of me and actively want to come see it. Again thanks for the comment 😊👍

[@richardmarshall4322]

@@YorkshireRailways Some good points. Yes you are right about the 'image' when you are young. I used to hide it to a certain extent. Had the mick taken a few times over the years. I am 58 now and don't care anymore. It's their problem, not mine lol

[@YorkshireRailways]

@@richardmarshall4322 exactly life’s to short to be worrying what others think 😊

[@martinpattison1567]

Where is Hornby's money going? In China, Tooling costs, samples, being sent to and from Hornby until Hornby are happy with the the model. They test the model on their test track, which has curves, crossovers, points etc. The new model makes it around the track and through other pieces of track. Signed off and put into production. Any new Item Loco or rolling stock should be run for at least 24 hours before signing of. So production starts and the little Chinese girls are trained to make the new model, put it in a new bok and pack it ready for shipping. Transport costs to take the container to the docks. (Export Duty and Vat) not to sure about that one. Cost of putting the container on the ship and sailing it to the UK. (Import duty and vat?) transport cost to the warehouse. Labour cost for unloaders, sorters, order pickers the list goes on and on. 60% of the cost is in China and transport. I have written to Hornby many times on this subject. Bring Hornby back to the UK and the majority of the problems will be a lot lell. Yes, of course the cost of labour will much higher, but I am sure that would be covered by the savings of not having models made in China. If Dapol can do it then so can Hornby and some of the saving be passed on to the customer.

[@YorkshireRailways]

Hi Martin, Would be nice in an ideal world to have things under British manufacture. However seems we as a country have forgotten how to make things. Maybe if there was less emphasis on high school graduates going to university for a non such degree and instead going into apprenticeships where they can learn skills and get paid then manufacturing could be brought back to the UK. Thank you for the comment 😊👍

[@thepracticalsurveyor]

Interesting video but you looking at your monitor and not the camera for me makes it difficult to watch! Makes me want to walk away. Like when you have a conversation with someone who won’t engage with eye contact and you think feel they are not interested. Nope that’s it got to bail 😮

[@YorkshireRailways]

Hello thank you for the comment and feedback. 😊👍

[@gpnorman9453]

jeekers small things eh...

[@tonyslight826]

Affordable models? they haven't been affordable to me for a few years or for a lot of others, the way they make these models now is a hole lot simpler than it was 20 odd years ago with laser three D printers cad programs etc etc they are ripping us off and probable awarding there selves high bonusses and wages I don't believe them for one minuet i look to ACCURASCALE and i have bought a couple direct from them at a much lower price than Hornbys well over priced models.

[@YorkshireRailways]

Hello Tony and thank you for the comment. I think Hornby are going to have to be careful with some of the new boys on the scene as they have some very competitive price 😊👍