Trainworld/Trainland

[maandg]

I have spent literally thousands of dollars with Trainworld over the past 20+ years and have never had a problem insofar as shipping and delivery goes. However, I recently ended all further dealings with them. Over the past several years, I have noticed a growing amount of rudeness from their operators. Now all I get is Attitude, Attitude, Attitude!!!!!!!! The "Soup Nazi" comment had me rolling on the floor - that is EXACTLY the way I have been continually treated. It seems things have gone down hill since the founder passed away a few years ago. The final straw occured when I tried to order a BLI KCS E3 and a P2K E6 with sound. I was smugly told that the BLI engine had not yet been released even though I had ordered my first one from THEM a month earlier. The operator all but called me an idiot. But what really infuriated me was the E6. They would not honor the price listed in the Model Railroader ad AND on their OWN website!!! I was quoted a price $40 higher than the advertised price. When I questioned this, I was basically hung up on. They could be giving away engines and you couldn't pay me to order from them again.

As an alternative to Trainworld, let me share a recent experience. A few weeks ago I found a dealer on eBay who would sell me 100 pieces of Atlas Code 83 flex track for $220, plus Atlas Code 83 #6 switches for $8.33 each. I wanted100 total - 50 right and 50 left. I inquired about, and was given FREE SHIPPING! When I called to pay with my Visa, I found out it was Nagengast Hardware and Hobby in Ridgewood, NY - - - a Local Hobby Shop!!!!. This LHS used to advertise in Model Railroader, and has been in business since 1947!!!! Hans, who I spoke with, was the nicest, friendliest and most courteous person I have ever had the pleasure of dealing with. Not only did I get Free Shipping, but he told me he would give me an additional discount for ordering so many switches($7.99 each)!!! He ALREADY had my business, so what did he gain by furthering my discount? How about a customer for LIFE!!! It is NO WONDER that this LHS has been going strong for nearly 60 years!!!!!!!! So much for the excuse of having a "typical New York attitude"!

Nagengast Hardware and Hobby has perfected the blueprint for a successful LHS in these changing times….a friendly, competitive local presence with a strong, equally friendly and competitive internet presence. For the cost of a slightly smaller profit margin, they not only closed a $1000 + sale, but gained a big-spending customer for the long haul. Even though I live in Mississippi, my friendly LHS is in New York!!!

Hey Trainworld.......no soup for YOU!!!!!!!!!!