How not to launch a product? | Hornby 2024 Range Announcement

The Hornby 2024 product range might be a bit underwhelming, but it was the announcement itself that left me disappointed.
Now, more than ever before, we need to make this hobby look exciting. We need to entice new people in by showing them how incredible the models are and wowing them with what's possible using modern technology. We need energy, passion and enthusiasm.
Hornby are the biggest name in the business, they've got the resources and they've designed a stunning new model, so if anyone can do it then surely they can...
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[@DonningtonCastleModelRailway]

Your analysis is spot on. Its very worrying for our hobby when you need to provide one of the major manufacturers with free consultancy on how to market and run a business. As you say we need all the big brands to be at the top of their game for this hobby to thrive. I only hope they start listening to the free advice they are getting from you.

[@_RandomPea]

They aren't interested. They want to reuse the same locos and keep costs to an absolute minimum. The video production shouts of 2000s, the style as dated as the models they try to flog. Sorry I really do love the BRAND, and all I own is Hornby but the business just doesn't operate as a major player, it's almost like they want someone else to take on that job. Simon and Meghan must have left for a reason and they saw the reality daily.

[@lukecarruthers]

@@_RandomPea Did you mean Montana? Who's Meghan? I think the "Little Wicket" criticisms of Hornby's launch are reasonable in part. I get the bit about it being less than slick and lacking in anticipation. That said they did actually show the product, working (!) that's a massive improvement over a load of pictures IMO. Of course they want to keep costs down, look at their accounts.

[@_RandomPea]

@@lukecarruthers yeh that's the one, Montana :) fair enough

[@Andy1962-in-Kinross]

Hornby’s 2024 product range launch wasn’t helped either by Mike rushing through the products. Was the parking time running out on his car or did he desperately need to go to the toilet? 😂 We all know key personnel have left or stepped aside at Hornby and it certainly showed in this very amateurish launch video. Just to clarify I too like Hornby and want them to thrive but they really need to up their game.

[@gordonmcillroy455]

I agree it was very rushed and almost garbled. The entire presentation was led by people not that comfortable in front of the camera IMO

[@_RandomPea]

As a product manager it seems they don't follow product management fundamentals, why give a full years plan? What they should do is focus on the things that will be delivered first, and achieve it. Then simply give an overview of the things they would like to do in the rest of the year, like an agile product roadmap..

[@_RandomPea]

The announcements from Hornby are near what you would expect from a business that doesn't really want to engage with the audience, i.e very much seen as a chore. Rob you have hit the nail on the head. The whole marketing approach is terrible, I'm not saying I would do much better but I certainly think they would do well to learn to engage and take ideas from the likes of yourself.

[@colingreen210]

Hornsby tried not producing a catalog a few years ago. It proved a disaster. Many of us want a catalog.

[@davidwatts1871]

I always buy a catalogue, I've got them all except for number one and two, good quality ones fetch serious money.

[@mattg5467]

And in the catchup live stream in the afternoon they also said that the catalogue contained more than just the items and their product numbers. It also includes information on the actual examples and interviews with the designers and the processes involved. A fairly large detail that was missed out on this video…..

[@jdenm8]

From what I understand, retailers adore the Coca-Cola and Beatles tat because it sells *really* well. It has a bit of that 'For a Dad with everything' appeal. As for me, I'm telling myself that I really don't need a Kato N Gauge LNER 800/1 9-Coach set, like I did with the Kato GWR 800/0 Paddington Bear set.

[@iaingardener9268]

A concise précis of my thoughts on this years announcement. For myself this year gives the impression lees of a model railway manufacturer and more of a company producing collectors items that can run along a track.

[@gregmacdonald927]

Thanks for this. I felt exactly the same. For me Sam made a better job of informing clearly what was announced and newly returned to the range than hornby themselves! Not how it should be surely…

[@_RandomPea]

Maybe they should try getting one or two seasoned KZbinrs to do them next time for a small commission, mind you with such an underwhelming roadmap I don't think even the very best could have made it more exciting

[@harrytodhunter5078]

They couldn’t afford a train ticket from Margate to Shildon to see Locomotion in real life

[@jamfjord]

Spot on, Rob, fully agree with each and every point made. Take a look at the Airfix launch of the Sea King. Same company, poles apart.

[@Teesbrough]

Agree 100% with everything you said. Allegedly there’s only one more new tooling which will be announced sometime later this year. I’m wondering whether this year’s 70th edition will be the last ever paper catalogue. When compared with one another, the catalogues are useful for deducing which items have been deleted from the range each year.

[@timharrison2894]

Excessive tat, specific liveries on old models. Couldn't agree more on the central point... Everyone in our hobby should want Hornby to do well

[@MistaMatthews]

People are getting excited about this locomotion model but I don’t believe Hornby are competent enough to pull this one off. Considering the quality control issues they’ve had in the past, a model like this is going to fall to pieces the moment you try to use it. That’s if you’re lucky enough to have it arrive in one piece in the first place.

[@jonharbour9166]

It hasn't been a great week for the hobby, has it Rob? The Hornby launch was poor, even by Hornby standards. Using the Accurascale launch of the 16T wagons as an example of how to launch a product was really astute. The Rapido launch videos are an equally good example. After the Hattons news and the Warley announcement, we were all desperate for something good and exciting. And what we got was the old tat (it isn't even the original old tat) and the Beatles tat. Dear oh dear Hornby, if that was a graded assignment, it wouldn't even rank an 'F'!

[@ShredderLivesOn]

If I were to be generous, then I'd say Hornby did the smart move by not announcing a lot. I get they need to catch up. Especially as I'm like yourself still waiting for models from them. Specifically the J36 in BR Green, and the GWR 14xx. But the positives for me stop there. What really disappointed me though, was that they didn't focus on a few new models to get people excited for what's to come. If Hornby had announced say six or seven locos that were to come throughout the year that spanned across eras, then the launch might not have been such a huge let down. And if there was a problem with a model that saw the production delayed, or in the case of the Tri-Ang remembered Caledonian Single set just outright cancelled, then at least there are other models to keep people interested. The nostalgia tat is just awful. The 0-4-0s repainted to mimic old Tri-Ang tank engines do nothing for me. I'd prefer to spend that £50 finding an actual Tri-Ang one in decent condition. That 0-4-0 tooling either needs to be restricted to budget entry level locos in the £20 - £30 range like the Bagnall Shunter they just announced for this year, or retired. It's getting embarassing that they charge customers £50 and up for it. I like the Beatles box wagons. Same as I've liked the novelty of the Only Fools & Horses wagons. And while I liked the Eurostar and the Singles from Liverpool train pack with the special Class 73 and the utility vans, the train packs with the small 0-4-0 and the repaint of the Thomas model announced this year really are scraping the bottom of the barrel. The Class 66 used to be £75 from Hornby when I bought mine all the way back in 2020. And at the time I thought that was pretty reasonable compared to the Hattons version. Which was more than double the price, but had a lot of quality control issues and mechanical flaws that saw them returned and flooding their pre-owned section. Now though with them having increased by about 30% and more in cost, to where they're hitting the £100 mark, I don't think they're a reasonable alternative anymore compared to the upcoming Accurascale model for £170. Which incredibly is cheaper than the Class 08 and 09 announced by Hornby this year. Why the Class 66 isn't still at the £70 - £80 mark as a RailRoad Range model given how basic it is, I do not know. And finally speaking of the RailRoad Range, that was probably for me the biggest disappointment from Hornby this year. First the J83 was a nice addition to see back in the range. But when it's the same livery and running number as ones that were prominent in sets for many years, and can be picked up in almost mint condition for less than £30, I think for the £80 price tag Hornby is asking for that I'll give it a miss. Which is also quite insulting when you compare that price to the £65 being asked for the "limited edition" Beatles and Rovex tank engines. Meanwhile the two train packs are costing more than quite a few starter sets. Considering that you don't get any track or a power supply, I don't see how £180 for a repaint of the R3063 or R2397 toolings that used to be in the range for about £85, only now with a pair of coaches slapped into the box, is in any way reasonable. RailRoad is supposed to be the cheap option to introduce people into the hobby, or help them develop interest by expanding. Especially if you're introducing kids, or are on a budget and don't care about fine detail. This kind of pricing is what turns people away from the hobby. Especially when incomes aren't going anywhere near as far as they used to.

[@blackjockofmangertonpele]

Some interesting observations here. Regarding announcements of new(?) items, Hornby do state at the start of their video that it will be followed by other announcements during the year, so that sounds a bit like what Bachmann does. Regarding producing a printed catalogue, whilst it is costly when done accurately, and is at best a snapshot of the range (at worst aspirational - note that certain wagons were pulled from the range announced last year too), it is a useful (some would say vital) tool of the trade for retailers. Also there are still a decent sized cohort of people who buy and/or collect the Hornby catalogue. Not probably your average modeller, but they are definitely there, and as you say, Hornby are undeniably the 'Hoover' of trainsets! Interesting video, thank you 😊

[@gwheregwhizz]

After 5 days, the number of views the Hornby range announcement video has had is 29,000. They could have got Hollywood to produce, Tom Cruise to present and Ridley Scott to direct it and I doubt it would have increased views and sales.

[@TATICMOOR]

I have to agree with you Rob, tat and more tat. I'm a Beatles music fan, too, and I was going to purchase the Wagons and C73 train set. With the further issues released later, the cost wasn't worth it. So, back to Accurascale for the First and Last C66s and a Draycott Manor. The Lion release was poorly outed, but great to see the prototype running, though the chat was a tad boring. Really, a 10 year ann' off the TGG A4s. I've the Goodbye set and Display (90 mth wait) but is a beautiful cabinet. It's still boxed up, lol, as a layout room is still in planning after two moves and a third possibility on the cards again, screams, lol. Not a lot got my ears perking up with the 2024 range. I'm hoping for the Suttons C25s ordered to fill my boots with when they, sigh, eventually arrive in. Cheers, for your thoughts, and maybe I'll call in for a visit, cuppa, biccie and chat with you, if I get over that way. Keep the stock rolling, check-a-leck, Aerosmith style.

[@StormmyStormmy]

Hi, great honest review, Hornby don’t care about its customers all they want is their money, why is it called Hornby bashing? Hornby have let me down big time with their woeful 21pin HST motorised roof fans that not fit for purpose in my opinion, for all those whom think the sun shines out of Hornby’s backside you wait until they let you down then you’ll realise they are a poor manufacturer of goods for a great hobby. I had a few issues with Accurascale this year for the first time in years, they didn’t fob me off they sorted the issues along with an apology for what had happened, they are my favourite manufacturer in this hobby, Bachmann have so many great products both past and present but the issue is their insane prices! I know King Charles the 3rd into model railways but unfortunately we fellow modellers don’t have his bank balance to splash the cash with, I know Bachmann want to fund their new dcc control system so we modellers shouldn’t have to fund it with those extortionate prices! Hornby need to join the real world and stop churning out the 30/40/50 year old mouldings in 2024 passing it off as new, as for the Railroad range it’s the biggest rip off in model railway history in my opinion! The hobby will die if the greed and poor manufacturing continues, thanks for sharing

[@tomijmcd]

If we are old fashioned enough to want model trains, we are old fashioned enough to want paper catalogues.😊

[@LittleWicketRailway]

I appreciate that paper catalogues are preferred by some, and they've become a bit of a collectors item, but at least put a PDF version online for free.

[@tomijmcd]

@@LittleWicketRailway That's true, it is more convenient; but us old timers like to reminisce by looking through old junk. It may be valuable some day. (But, very probably not!)

[@lucitonstjames3925]

Hornby are the most infuriating of companies. They lurch from one crisis to drama after another. I find all their marketing / promo / catalogues /packaging even the typeface of the brand to be poorly done / present a naff look. That office in Margate they use , my god what a coma inducing environment that is. For the Locomotion model logic says they should have gone to wherever the real thing is & filmed a segment up there, it would have worked so well / museum staff to have a natter about the history etc with & give the launch a proper thought about feel. The steam era models should have been taken to Neville Grove or somewhere of that standard of steam era layouts & showcased on a proper set up , for stills for the catalogue etc, same with the Diesel era models , say at Dean Park or with Everard Jnc., it cant be that difficult to send a message & get something sorted out. Its Hornby for gods sake people should be queing up to work with them. The 70 years of Rovex ,holy smokes they really are scraping the barrel, 70 years of once having a factory now reduced to a bit of a warehouse . vast empty buildings , the mind boggles. The Triang stuff that isnt even Triang , what can you say? The re-release of VIX ferrywagon, which is a old Triang model at a time when 2 other manufacturers have issued far better / upto date versions , i mean why? Got a great idea fellas, 2 other companies have brought out really good models of this wagon, lets see if we can palm off this old stager as well, do you laugh or cry? Of all the ex Lima models to flood the market with they choose the worst one in the 66. Again logic says , we are a company that makes mk3 HST coaches , lets re-issue the old Lima HST power cars as shops are awash with coaches & not many power cars to suit. The look of total boredom when the product chap started talking about the Stadler Flirt. Here they are with one of the most interesting bits of stuff for the current scene they have announced & they're they are mumbling along. Again why nt take a train trip to Ilford or Norwich where these units are based / run & talk about it , pretty sure the depot manager etc could have taken time out to have a natter about the real ones etc, again give a serious bit of kit the pazzazz it needs. The guys at Accurasclae / Cavalex / Revolution & Rapido are running rings around Hornby & to good extent Bachmann as well who are also guilty with their qaurterly snoozefests.

[@medwaypeninsulaMR]

I totally agree

[@Japan-in-N]

Great video Rob, I no longer model the UK scene. I Model Japanese railways who announce via a flyer what’s coming in about 4 months, although last year they were super apologetic as there was a one month delay on a product.

[@thereal_havanthawk]

Let's go another video!

[@steved5356]

I guess after Simon K and Montana left, Hornby are still struggling to figure out what to do. i.e. their target market is typically aimed at kids and seasoned modellers, and this is why they have their Railroad range. Also their competitors are doing a better job overall. Accurascale and Dapol etc. models are not aimed at young kids but are way better and cheaper than Hornby’s high end models. I love Hornby’s TXS decoders but there was no mention of this at the launch announcement. I am still waiting for the dongle and 6 pin decoder to finally come out, still waiting for Flying Scotsman Steam Generator version, despite those things being pre ordered in early 2022. I looked in my 2022 catalog and it said Steam version was coming out Q4 2022 but website now says summer 2024. Hornby looks lost.

[@timbervalleyproductions]

Yeah i agree - they didnt make it exciting or interesting, now, not to insult Mike or any of the team but a bloke at a table sat 3 foot away from a mic talking about a model they announced 3 years ago isnt really interesting! Very hard to get excited about this range.

[@peteredwards2857]

A well covered video, I would of liked some information on the Txs range.

[@VictoryWorks]

A lot of people keep saying the hobby is on the decline... yet also saying that the second hand market is too expensive. I can't get those two things to sit together. Surely if the hobby is dying then those leaving it will be flooding the market with second hand gear as they leave, making second hand prices drop.

[@davidranger4468]

The decline of the hobby has two main factors. The rate of existing collectors dying off/selling up and the rate of new collectors joining the hobby. At the moment the rate joining has fallen through the floor and continues to nosedive. The rate leaving is pretty consistent but is heading to a cliffedge as seen by Hattons, Warley etc. The generations of '40's and '50's boys with their Hornby trainsets are alas now reaching their final active years. The second hand market is holding up in value for several reasons. 1. The cost of living crisis - If people are selling they want as much as they can get 2. Models now cost more. When I was a teenager in the early 2000's I could pick up a brand new Hornby coach for £15, now you're not getting much change out of £45 some go for closer to £60 new. If I'm looking to sell to buy something else new I want as much as possible. 3. Rareity. As the hobby has shrunk over the years so have production runs. Take the Hornby Mk3 Arriva trains Wales DVT, retailed originally at £30... regularly up to £300 on ebay when they come up for sale. 4. Collections sold by family members. They have a quick check online, see the current price of a model and try and flog dad's 1970's model for the same price as today's. Thats my take on it anyway

[@VictoryWorks]

@@davidranger4468Thanks for the response. I can understand the rarity issue but the complaint for second hand high prices seems to be across the board. Just because people see/want a high price for their items doesn't mean they will get it, the market will only bear what it will bear and eventually those high prices that are not selling will be reduced as people accept that they'd rather have some money than an item they no longer want gathering dust and taking up space. Supply and demand is always the decider on pricing, so if the prices are remaining high then the demand must be there. Perhaps it's the top end that is suffering due to the reasons you list and therefore the second hand is in demand because even if the prices are high, they are still not at the level of brand new products. Or perhaps this is all still happening and the second hand market is about to crash as it gets flooded by those leaving the hobby, by choice or by life expiry

[@Paul-th3ul]

I like catalogue. Is better read than looking internet.

[@peterm7548]

If Hornby want to do something really useful why not put in basic directional lighting into their Railroad Plus modern image locos?

[@bendavis7233]

Hi Little wicket railway. Hope good Christmas plus a new year. Hornby 2024 range. My front. Hornby 2024 range is poor but with it being caught up year all trains from 2020 to 2023 I hope do come out. I hope the Hornby J36 I have on order (A.ROD Livery 5662 Back in 2020 or 2021 B.65330 Limited Edition In British railway green letting, J36 Class.) (And R30137 BR, Class B17/5, and 61670 'City of London' back in 2023 All come out.) Can't wait to see Suprise Announcements throughout the year. Hope to get this year. Things I like in this year's range got to be the Era1 coaches as they will go great with my Titfield Thunderbolt train. Good now don't need to buy the two rocket packs at £220 just to get the L&MR, Royal Mail Coach and L&MR, 2nd Class Coach want only around £45. Meaning I'm saving £350. looking at Tiger as now just get the tiger not with the stupid coal wagon just rocket tender paint brown with bit wood to cover up way the men would be putting coal into the train. To get tiger pack looking around £230 train being around £130 saved £100. Hornby Plase Look at this. I was hoping this year four the T3 563 in LSWR green it at Swanage now. Or Y14 in GER blue 564 at the North Norfolk railway. New SR Z class in SR or BR. 8f in LMS Red or Br red it has Great Central Railway. Hornby Bad part of Hornby Year 2024 range. I think the Beatles range is just a waste of money as most younger people are not into Beatles music. Train and wagon pick are just bad too high on the money and super old tools. The only made sense was class 373 as one did have it back in 1999. The 70th Anniversary loco is just bad the same as the Beatles not even the right loco. I think Thompson is overpriced at £179.00 as I got one last year at a great election train show got one at £80 do like British Railway letting in green but at that price no. Hornby Good part of Hornby Year 2024 range. But do things good choose of Railroad as it helps get younger people and people nota lot money on them. But do things both Railroad packs are at £180.00 should come down to £140 and there should be three coaches in a pack not two. Do wish there did the coaches come with MR pack separately. Nice to see more class 67 livers as never got GBRF, or Queen one based on real life. Help to give people who like more modern fright train bigger choice to pick more train. I like steam train more but good to see class 34hst in GNER with 2022 tools as give people change like early Privatisation 1996-2008 some things to run. Do like the look of Derelict Farm Building looks good on my farm.

[@YorkshireRailways]

I couldn’t agree more, seemed so rushed and only a couple of models seemed really getting where as the rest were as you put repainted tat. When the smaller manufacturers are bringing out better detailed models for less money it’s really time to up their game. I get they are playing catch up still from the last couple of years but some of the new models could have had some interesting video. I’ve just preordered the class 60 from Cavalax models through key publishing and they did a 11 minute video for their class 60 reveal and a further 12 minute video for key publishing’s limited edition class 60 Ben Nevis which is the one I’ve ordered. Hopefully the special announcement will have this level of spectacle from Hornby or maybe once they’ve caught up on the last few years 2025 will bring a better launch. Great video as always Rob! 👍

[@alansmith4881]

I use modern technology, but much prefer a printed catalogue when viewing products. If looking at similar products from different manufacturers, I can have multiple catalogues open side by side for comparison purposes. I can have a catalogue by my side with instant access. Starting the computer up, waiting for it to load, going to the website, hunting for the Web page, flick flacking between screens, and then trying to remember all the different specifications is not for me. I could of course, print the pages off, but isn't that like a catalogue that's not as well produced. Inclusiveness is very important and, if you don't want a catalogue, don't buy one, but don't belittle those that do. Marginalised people drift away, and that's the last thing the hobby needs.

[@stephenbromley2302]

Nothing I want from this years collection as you said still waiting 2021/22 products,presenters didn’t have the same enthusiasm as old Simon

[@nigelcole1936]

Good point well made

[@damianinCanadaTT-OO]

I agree there launch was very flat. I think catch-up is still a good idea, Railroad models are important because we need to get younger people into the hobby and the Locomotion was very interesting if badly introduced. The Q&a afterwards was more interesting with a running prototype video! Mike seems like a nice guy but his knowledge is very limited and his enthusiasm doesn’t feel very genuine. Carl is good for the in depth videos but too technical for a launch. To be honest the face of Hornby is starting to feel like people with a job selling any product they don’t have a personal passion for.

[@spankflaps1365]

I was always surprised there was no OO Locomotion in RTR. It was always popular in the Meccano world. I think the finicky valve gear is why manufacturers avoided Locomotion. But that’s no excuse!

[@davidranger4468]

As a post privatisation modeller there is yet again nothing here for me in this year's catalogue. This concerns me because ultimately as Pete Waterman says of his making tracks layouts, what kids want to see is the trains they see running past their windows not steam locomotives from the 1920's or 1830's for that matter. Kids are the future of the hobby. Why has it taken Dapol 32 years to produce a class 323, 24 years for Revolution to do a Class 175 etc. Some purple Lima tooled Class 66 and 67's doesn't quite cut the mustard and it's killing the interest of kids (and adults) who don't have any interest in obscure pre grouping steam loco's and 4 wheeled carriages. I do however agree with another catchup year, with models still outstanding from '20/'21 its clear Hornby have over promised and under delivered. With the likes of Accurascale and Revolution trains producing better quality, more detailed and better value models Hornby need to up their game and fast. Better to have a catchup year and a few surprise announcements and under promise and over deliver. The major problem with Hornby is it's a failing brand in a declining market, but worse than that, it's a failing brand that has aquired a whole raft of other failing brands competing in the same declining markets of hands on toys/models. It tries to be all things to all men and I fear it's making more misses than hits. The best advice I could give Hornby is to be known for doing one thing, and doing it well.

[@medwaypeninsulaMR]

I thought the same if you are launching products then have a bit pizazz but I was left totally underwhelmed . The rest of the launch I felt was really rushed . The Platinum Jubilee items seem to be past news even more so that QEII is no longer with us. More Class 66s did not surprise me either , No mention of HM7000 at all at least they could have given us an update of sound profiles that are on their way and also an update on the Dongle with release date and compatability with other systems. I was very disappointed that Play Trains seems to have been ditched as this was a good entry point to get youngsters into the hobby . Hornby need to decide what market they are aiming for either the general modelling world or the high end collector but if you are going to charge more than say Accurascale or Rapido then you have to have a product that competes in quality , for example their latest TEA wagon had the big D couplings. Also don't produce the Tat items such as the Beatles range or the over priced 0-4-0s. One thing I was pleased was that there was more RailRoad items as I think they are good value . I am not a Hornby Basher but just frustrated. Cheers Kev

[@andydavidson9440]

Well said Rob. There was nothing inspiring in the video and I think we should be beyond hard copy catalogues now. Let’s hope they are listening to their market before they lose it

[@LiveSteamNick]

Hornby ditched the full size catalogue in 2016 for a pamphlet style mini catalogue and there was uproar across the board. The full size returned the following year. I do think £10 is taking the piss though. Accurascale give away merch that is on par with Fortnum and Masson in comparison. LOL

[@russellbenton2987]

Yeah Accurascale built up the expectation last time for an 8F then announced a Pannier- so not that impressed. They do tend to tease . As to Hornby catalogues , many of us do.collect them . Agree could do with a revamp . I got the impression the new head of brand , Martin, wasn’t overly familiar with the range . Compare his performance with the Airfix range launch.

[@vectorbrony3473]

In a way I was kinda relieved that there was nothing new for the Southern Railway. Gives my finances a breather. Locomotion is a good model but it’s very niche and I have to question its pulling power with the size

[@signalcabin]

Awww you weren't too harsh mate. The Goldilocks amount just right

[@petersmith4455]

hi there. you are very right,nothing for me in the new catalogue, thank goodness Bachmann came out on top with the EFE range and the class 70 booster electric loco which is just FAB, the clowns at hornby yet again did not produce a railroad 08 for beginners, kids today are priced out of the hobby.

[@dougalmcdougal8682]

I really don’t see the hobby in trouble … I show cancelled because the lads getting on a bit … I shop who lost a significant part of its range closes … 1 manufacturer announces pretty bland forthcoming releases … Hardly Armageddon is it 😅

[@VictoryWorks]

I would agree. The consistently high prices in the second hand market would tend to bear this out as well. If the hobby was dying then the market would be flooded with old stock as people leave and the second hand prices would be in freefall - basic supply and demand economics

[@WhiffTheRubbishEngine1869]

We need Aerolite in his beautiful NER Green

[@neilforkings8336]

If you watched the Q&A they had a running prototype,not a fan of mumbling mike .I think this still a Simon kohler range I think next year be different,

[@jameshardy4354]

Beetles tat 😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂that's just what it is Tat

[@treinenliefde]

I have to agree. You're talking about such a detailed model, with valve gear movement that is much more impressive than seen on other models, even compared to other new toolings (talking to you, Rapido Port of Par locomotives). The leaked video of the prototype is incredibly impressive and they just don't show it. Why? I don't care about era 1, but if this model gets to be a reliable locomotive I do hope Hornby's knowledge might result in models with more fine valve gear being released. Just image a nice model with moving inside valve gear being released. If No 1 succeeds, that would be a fun way to use that experience.

[@FluidLoneknight]

If you watched the live Q&A video the answer would be obvious. The range video was recorded a few weeks ago where the 'leaked' video which arrived the morning of the release so was shown in the Q&A not the releases was pre recorded video scheduled for release

[@AdiPullen]

Your of the nicer on hornby range announcement If am honest I was disappointed with it Locomotion no1 is great P2 with double smoke deflectors I wish it was with out the smoke generator Keep safe ARP

[@LiveSteamNick]

It is out now and it’s not good in the sound and smoke department !!!!! The sound file is corrupted and smoke effect is scatterbrained. Let’s hope there’s a software upgrade soonest!!

[@petercole2092]

Hornby could be out of ideas on what to produce. We have company's like Accurascale making high detail models for less than Hornby sells them. . KR. Model's making the oddballs of the railway world plus others appearing on the scene with their offerings. From what I saw of Hornbys launch video it was dull and felt like no one could muster any enthusiasm for products they were hoping to sell . Hence why I think they are struggling on what to do next when other company's are producing so much and finding it hard to find something that the customer wants.

[@jimrobinson6362]

Disgaceful that Hornby have purloined their name from a respected manufacturer namely Hornby Dublo 60yrs on my dublo locos are still showing their quality over the newer issues

[@gwheregwhizz]

Although the 0-4-0 Nellie and friends look a bit overpriced, Hornby is the last man standing in the industry trying to make a decent quality product that's robust enough for young children and my guess is a version will appear in a £100 train set at some point that hopefully encourages the next generation.

[@_RandomPea]

Whilst I appreciate your view and sentiment. What kid had £100!!?? The locos are not priced for the younger generation. Why on earth would kids spend or ask for a single loco for £40-60 when a game on their computer would cost them the same, take up less space and not need all the track and added extra bits of plastic that cost another £100+. Let's be real, the real reason for the 040s being produced is they are cheap to make and the factories in china know what to do and can concentrate on the complex locomotive 1 build. My hope is that they are turning their attention to tt120 for families, because I think they missed a trick there to not make that entry level from the market release.

[@gwheregwhizz]

​@@_RandomPea Hornby are producing 750 limited edition Nellie's at £50 each meaning of they sell every one, the total gross sales are £37,500. They then need to deduct the cost of manufacturing in China and landing them in the UK, cost of development (well a livery anyway) and all the other associated expenses associated at Margate. Truth is it isn't going to make their shareholders rich. No other manufacturer produces a sub £100 model to my knowledge, nevermind half that. £100 for a train set including the usual stuff is reasonable. There is a problem with attracting youngsters. My XBox Series S and train simulator cost £250, the same as a detailed model. Put an XBox in front of a kid and an Accurascale Deltic and ask them to choose one and the XBox wins. Problem is although the likes of Accurascale and Rapido do quality models, they have nothing suitable on price and robustness to compare with Nellie so I'm praising Hornby on this for trying but I think you are right. It could be a lost cause.

[@eurovnik]

The 0-4-0 Bagnall diesel shunter is £35. No need to buy Nellie and Co.

[@paulc9588]

@@eurovnik That model is the only realistically priced Railroad 0-4-0/0-6-0 they are offering . . . a better loco than the £50 Nellie & Co. 'Transatlantic' tank engines and much cheaper. Nellie & Co. should be ~£30, they must cost about a tenner to make and ship.

[@eurovnik]

@@paulc9588 pricing has very little to do with cost of production and much more to do with what the market will pay. Hornby clearly reckon that there are enough nostalgic modellers out there who will pay that much for Connie etc. And good luck to them - they've got to turn a profit at the end of the day.

[@maringarvanovic8011]

I was really hoping that now that Simon and Montana have gone Hornby would switch on. They were awful and were dragging Hornby into the gutter. However looking at this launch clearly not. Beatles crap and repaints. My pre orders are exactly zero.

[@CrumpledSandwich]

And then it was a class 37

[@johnphillipson1107]

With Simon K and Montana gone the writing is on the wall for Hornby. Sad, yes. But to be honest they have completely lost their way. They keep churning out LNER A4s in various boxes - The great gathering, again and again. The Hornby 'Dublo' versions. Railroad versions. How many A4s can one afford at the over £200 and up to £300 prices now being required to get them. No doubt the new kids on the block are now really hitting Hornby and they show no sign of responding. Sad.

[@DaraM73]

Catalogues are essential. What a stupid comment…it’s like saying why have you got an iPad?

[@eurovnik]

I could do without the breathless commentary, hype, dramatic music etc. I thought Hornby's launch was just fine. Pretty similar to how Piko do their range announcements. Apparently Locomotion No. 1. is selling like hot cakes. Two stand out Railroad items for me: the 0-4-0 Bagnall shunter at £35 which is a price cut; the Class 47 with HM7000 TXS sound for £120. Name one other manufacturer offering a comparable DCC sound loco at that price.

[@ChobertonJunction]

Having returned to the model railway hobby after 40 years away I was excited to see what the legendary Hornby would announce. Sorry Hornby but I left uninspired and unimpressed. Shan’t be buying anything from that lot.

[@gordonmcillroy455]

Big brands need big larger than life characters to go in front of the camera at launch time. Maybe they should follow Bachman's example and only say something when you have something to say. Dull lacklustre and un impressive. As for catalogues. WHY.

[@stufindlow6664]

It does all make you wonder if things are far worse than any of us realise and that Hornby are selling off what's left before shutting down for good along with Hattons and Warley.

[@Barbarapape]

I can see this hobby and Hornby going downhill. We have already had a bad start to this year with the shock of Hattons closing if this continues how many more are going to do the same? Hornby's 2024 new models was a bit meh for me, not one of them said buy me. This togeather with the far too high prices do no one any favours.

[@markjlewis]

I won't be buying anything from Hornby this year. Why they persist with Coca-Cola and Beatles models I have no idea. As much as I enjoy the Beatles music I have no interest in models that feature the band. There are some famous musicians that also enjoy model railways, Rod Stewart and Jules Holland for example. I have never heard that John, Paul, George and Ringo had/have an interest in the hobby although as kids I imagine that they each had a trainset. And as for those 0-4-0 models at £50, Hornby are having a laugh. I have a couple of them from the time when I was Hornby club member. I suspect that if I put them on eBay the postage would cost me more than I'd get for the models.

[@pauldyer3312]

It is sad that hornby have not got it right this year, but there is a lot of competition out there. Hornby need to find another Simon and Montana that have the command and leadership to thrust the company back on top.

[@DaraM73]

Hardly a dynamic energy driven video from yourself 🤣

[@LittleWicketRailway]

True, but I'm not trying to sell anything. It's all free to you 🙂

[@DaraM73]

@@LittleWicketRailway advertising is not “free” to me, the viewer, nor is ”Premium” from YT.

[@michaelnaisbitt7926]

This can be summed up very briefly HORNBY HAS LOST THE PLOT INCREASING YOUR PRICES BY 20---45% for very oid THING based models is not the way to go The hobby is dieing give it a funeral

[@rich_rich90]

The whole Hornby/Airfix/Scalextric empire just come across as arrogant. Terrible marketing, terrible attitude to customers, terrible attitude to retailers, terrible attitude to finances.

[@oldgoat5589]

For crying out loud, will you people STOP saying "Hi, Guys". It is so irritating.

[@marksinthehouse1968]

Here here what if a girl was watching woke gone made or are we now in America 😢

[@stickman18]

At last somebody agrees with me I hate being called a guy . Call me a bloke, a chap, a gent call me anything as long as you don't call me a guy , sorry rant over.

[@LiveSteamNick]

Yeah,,,, Steve Wright had the best intro,,,,’Hello Everybody’ much nicer and non offensive!!

[@brickleyyard4966]

Hornby are a joke

[@presidentxd]

Hornby are top dog.their attitude is we produce product you consume product. Theres no effort from them any more

[@michaelnaisbitt7926]

This can be summed up very briefly HORNBY HAS LOST THE PLOT INCREASING YOUR PRICES BY 20---45% for very oid THING based models is not the way to go The hobby is dieing give it a funeral