@Dennis LaGrua posted:When the train market was brisk, MTH came out with some great products at affordable prices. An alternative to Lionel was refreshing to have. It is sad to see MTH close but we must come to realize that that the demographics of those that buy the trains is rapidly changing. The market once supported 8 or 9 O gauge model train companies now Lionel, Atlas, Williams and Menards remain. This is probably still enough to satisfy the market. MTH had a great run and we wish Mike Wolf all the best in his retirement. There will still be trains to satisfy the market needs but the bottom line here is that nothing is forever,
Demographics and the trouble brewing with China are more than reason enough to call it a day:
Demographics - It’s unfortunate but baby boomers are aging out faster than new folks are getting into the hobby. The market is on the verge of a serious stretch of deflation as supply will significantly exceed demand for all but the rarest of the rare. This is actually a very good time to get into the hobby as you will be able buy some high end stuff at low prices.
China - Who knows how this will turn out, but when you are dealing with a trading partner that you can’t trust it is going to be ugly.
If any of us were running a profitable business with the above undercurrents, you’d probably cash it in while there was still a good amount a cash to get.
Even though I did not support MTH by purchasing new products, I own quite a bit that was purchased on the used market and am more than pleased my purchases.
I wish Mike and his crew the best, thank you for all you have done to make the train hobby relevant in the 21st century. No matter what part of the hobby you participate in you have benefited from MTH!
