Lionel goes to the mall...

[Michael6268]

If they stick to full MSRP that is bound to be more of a deterant to the hobby than a attraction....

[Firelock76]

The Lionel mall in the store is a good idea, a very good idea indeed!  Anything that creates interest in the hobby is a good idea.

Now, as to pricing.  If there are no model railroad hobby shops within a 75 to 100 mile radius there shouldn't be any conflict with underselling any of their dealers, as long as they keep the discounts within reason.  They certainly shouldn't kill the "shop around the corner" assuming there is one.

And no mail orders or on-line sales!  Keep it walk in retail.  Do that and they can price the stuff to move.

[tarheeltracks]

robmcc

I am only about 1.5 hours from that store so get by 2 or 3 times a year. Most of the time prices are MSRP, but they will at times have some items on sale. I think that store is closing tommorow?? Best time to get a bargain is the warehouse sale in November.  I hope when they have the grand opening in September there will be some bargains at the new store.

[Nationwidelines]

With malls dying and interest in trains waning, this sounds like a great idea!

[thesiding]

Lets hope we get other states though the northeast rents are gonna be high

[robmcc]

Has anyone been to the Lionel store in Concord? I'm curious what they sell their product for. I know when I used to visit the Mount Clemens factory store, they still sold everything at catalog MSRP. So, it was still a better deal through the local dealers. I get it they don't want to undercut their dealers, but it makes one wonder if the store would be profitable.

[fifedog]

With Toys R Us going under, this might be an opertune time for LIONEL to try this venture.  I wouldn't mind seeing them setting up partial rentals (Sep-Dec), much like the "pop-up" Christmas and Halloween stores.

Folks still enjoy going shopping.

Wish them luck.

[tarheeltracks]

Lionel has decided to go into the retail store business. They will be opening their(as they call it) flagship store at Concord Mills mall in Concord NC. The store will be opening Labor Day weekend, and the current store at their headquarters will close. Full details at their website.