I have stumbled on to a Facebook group OC Model Trains, which appears to be based in the midwest. They appear to be going gang busters on buying up shops and what not. Their 'business model' is not one I've seen elsewhere in the country. Do you know anything about them and this 'model'? Am looking for respectful comments and opinions.
Thx,
Mark
Out of curiosity I logged into facebook to see what this was about. And like all things facebook I don't have a clue. There was a reference from someone who made a purchase, but I couldn't find a link anywhere to anything they had to sell.
I did see that they were opening a bunch of stores, and something about them getting in a gazillion dollars worth of Lionel. But if it takes me more than 30 seconds to get to a here's what we have to sell page, then that model better know how to sing because it won't get anywhere with its looks.
There are 10 positive reviews. They don't explain their business model very well, they claim to have 8 going on 9 locations, but the pictures are stacks of merchandise on tables and the floor, not aisles in a store. They go to midwest train shows. There is only one address listed on his page.
He says he is going to put $150K of merchandise in a store at a railroad museum, he is buying $150K of estate O scale and Lionel, $25K of shirts, hats, cups, coasters and mouse pads. I think we are supposed to be impressed.
Henry
COB Potomac & Northern
Shenandoah Valley
I think he had posted a couple of really large estates over on one of the HO swap groups over on Facebook a while back. Kind of strange in how he runs things. Didn't realize he was buying into other locations. Anyone in central Missouri comment on him?
What does OC stand for? Hopefully not Obsessive Compulsive!
Rio Grande. The Action Road - Focus 1977-1983
BigDaddyThey don't explain their business model very well,
.
No, they sure do not.
I read all I could stand, and I have no idea what they were up to.
The part about if you were interested in joining their group of stores was expecially poorly done.
-Kevin
Living the dream.
Guys,Here's what I know. The majority of the estates and shop closing is bought by train show dealers and resold at train shows or e-Bay. Of course some is sold at highest bid at estate auction.
I will urge caution with anything on Facebook unless it a well known manufacturer or a well known on line or B&M hobby shop..
Larry
Conductor.
Summerset Ry.
"Stay Alert, Don't get hurt Safety First!"
Might be a scam.
OC Model trains set up at our Jacksonville Train Show last weekend. If you go to their facebook page and scroll down to the 23rd - 24th postings you will see photos of their setup. They were very busy during the show and did well in sales. Stock looked new, but some was hobby shops that closed and they purchased their stock. Very nice & friendly folks. IIRC, they said that their 9th store would be opening soon in Illinois. I am not affilated with the shop in any way, just have tables next to them at the show.