Williams Prices

[vbkostur]

I searched the forum and could not find this specific topic discussed already, although it might have been...

Looking at the Williams (by Bachman) web-site it seems the rolling stock prices were higher than I remember.

Example: Rolling Stock cars $34.95 Illuminated Porthole Caboose $39.95

Even my LHS (that has fair prices at best) has some Williams cars starting at $20 and going up to $29.

Maybe since I do not purchase directly from Williiams, I am not used to those prices.

 

[Blueberryhill RR]

vbkostur..... I have bought a lot of cars from Williams directly. Those prices you see on their website are the same as they have been. The Dealers will sell cheaper, as I have found out. BUT, the Dealers don't always have in stock, what you are looking for.

Chuck

[vbkostur]

i guess i was just used to the prices justrains offered!

 

[phillyreading]

I bought from an independant Williams dealer until a few months ago and got some really great discounts, almost 35% off catalog prices. Had to order stuff from him but never longer three months for delivery. Not sure if the guy will continue to sell Williams with the new Bachman arrangement.

Lee F.

[Crabby44]

I always thought that it was odd how an authorized dealer could sell the Williams products cheaper than factory direct. I sure hope that Bachmann gets on the stick and starts turning out some product. I miss buying Williams. Lionel and MTH are way too expensive for my taste. This hobby needs Williams.

[rtraincollector]

From what it apears bachman won't sell direct to you . You will need to go thru a dealer to buy. Which is fine with me . Now to the prices on there web site they are sugested retail prices its up to the dealer to set price. I know from experince that williams use to offer items at 50% off to dealers and thats how they were able to give you a discount. from what I understand now thou the new items will only be about 35% discount to dealers so expext williams from dealers to go up some but probally still be less than what the avertise on there web page.

[trigtrax]

From what it apears bachman won't sell direct to you .

Bachmann has an established distribution system and not selling direct to the public is a way to protect that. The Williams Brand under Bachmann will be more available in many retailers who wouldn't touch it before.

[phillyreading]

Don't know how Bachman will do business, but from talking to a couple of hobby shop owners here in West Palm Beach FL area "Lionel wants a minimum order of $5000.00 and Lionel sends you want they have on hand."  So what I am saying about Lionel is you don't know what came in the order until it arrives with the paperwork, you may get a $1200.00 locomotive to sell.  Some smaller hobby shops buy from a vendor, a person who buys in bulk then ships it as requested by hobby shops.

Also with Gargraves to get a dealer discount you must order over $250.00.

The only thing I will say is 'Time will tell.'

Lee F.