Come Check Out Our Latest Two-Day Livestream Featuring Lionel Trains Talking About Their 2024 Catalog! Tuesday, Feb 6th - 6 PM Traditional Trains With Cori and Meghan Wednesday, Feb 7th - 6 PM Scale Trains With Ryan Kunkle
Will there be an American Flyer 2024 catalog? It would be great to see a Flyer Legacy Polar Express Berkshire - and appropriate for the 20th anniversary.
How much Longer can our Great and Fun Hobby Survive with these kind of prices? Something I'm very concerned about. Younger kids don't have a Chance. And that's our Future.
Younger kids need to get a decent amount of disposable income before planning on ordering Lionel trains. They are a luxury not a necessity- no need to worry so much.
@amadigidigaula771 Lots of kids love them. Even alot of parents won't buy them Lionel Trains for the Holidays or Birthdays anymore or let them get started into the Hobby because of the High Prices. Not sure if you are into O Scale Model Railroading or not. When a Hobby can't be affordable anymore it will just die out. Lionel does not need to charge this much. Lionel has forgotten the enjoyment kids get out of Model Trains and the Kids themselves and that Trains are a TOY. Now they only cater to wealthy adults. Do you real think that 4K is a good price for a set? My gosh you can buy your kid a used car for that much. This is my Point.
Having been one of those kids that loved and still love them, and having parents that didn’t buy me any, I understand your frustration with the high prices and how it can deter kids and parents from getting involved in the hobby. While it's true that affordability is crucial for sustaining interest in any hobby, there are a few points to consider: Prices are often determined by market demand, production costs, and other economic factors. If the demand for Lionel Trains remains high even at higher prices, the company may continue to set them at that level. Everything is more expensive nowadays and Lionel is no exception. Lionel Trains are known for their premium features, which go figure, often come at a premium. While it's unfortunate that this might exclude some families, it's also a reflection of the materials, design, and attention to detail that go into making these products. While Lionel Trains may be out of reach for some families, there are often alternative options available at different price points. From other brands to pre-owned stater sets that aren’t exorbitantly sold second hand on eBay, there are ways to enter the hobby without breaking the bank. The premium catalog’s items are far from toys, these are models. Unlike some toys that may lose their appeal over time, model trains have a timeless quality. They can be passed down through generations and even appreciate in value, making them an investment in more ways than one. While $4K might seem steep for a train set, it's essential to weigh the value proposition and long-term enjoyment it can provide against the initial cost. Ultimately, fostering an interest in hobbies like model railroading can offer unique educational and recreational benefits for children and adults alike.