It does make sense that Lionel and/or MTH would be offering the latest locomotives, since these are the ones seen by the public. These products have the potential to increase market share.
On the other hand, the esoteric desires of model railroad enthusiasts, for the most part, only reach those who are already deeply invested in the hobby. I, by no means, am suggesting this is a bad move. It is a good strategy, but only as a secondary vision. Also, esoteric is not a negative label. It is just the reality of the view of those prospective new hobbiests.
Every Lionel/MTH catalog should include an offering of an oft seen locomotive by today’s public. Doing so, Lionel/MTH are allowing Amtrak and railroads to do the advertising for Lionel/MTH. Free advertising, a novel concept.
The problem with my opinion is that I have not considered the copyright rights that the railroads may charge. Those smarter than me should comment if pertinent.
