. . . do you think Menards will add an O-gauge locomotive to its toy-train product line?
I figure it is bound to happen. I surely hope so.
Original Post
Replies sorted oldest to newest
That's a huge step.
I'm not telling you anything you don't know I am sure........
But I help with the manufacture of plastic model kits in China, a relatively simple process comparatively. Get the tooling right and your job is pretty much done.
Add a motor and electronics and it just multiplies the level of difficulty greatly.
Now have one of the established manufactures produce a exclusive is a different story. That I could see. But unlike their structures, which it seems they develop, a working loco from scratch....no.
Don't know, but the way they keep adding products it certainly seems it could be a good possibility.
Buildings and rolling stocks are more simple to handle(defects, repairs, etc.) than engines. It is still possible but I think they should watch their pace.
Probably never - focus on more buildings. More than enough cars and engines are already available.
You never say never.
I hear everything. You are right, all of you.
Except, look at this strictly from a business standpoint. Menards hasn't offered one fundamentally new product. What they do is license slightly modified/re-labelded version of existing products by [fill the blanks, lots of companies] of buidlings, diecast vehicles, and figures.
Its a business deal, and really, what is the difference between making a deal with Woodland Scenics for a customized different version of one of their buildings, and with Lionel for a Menards version of the Vision Big Boy. It's just a business contract and licensing. Not really any different. t
That is what I was thinking of . . .
I'm sure it's been discussed and maybe researched a little. An engine or two would round out their product line, but, as some have said, boxcars and buildings are one thing locomotives are another. Do they want to get into the warranty business? Electronics? But, an electronic reverse unit is a fairly simple thing any more, so is sound. They wouldn't be inventing anything new. It's really a tough call.
Right now, I'm more concern if they may have a booth at York. With representatives from their company fielding questions concerning their plans for the future. I don't think they are ready to jump into making locomotives yet, but down the road another five years, I would say yes.
maybe Menards can work out a deal with RMT.
