Hi, I drive lgv`s for a living which means I can get about and visit model shops all around.
Today I was in Harlow and took the chance to call in at Essex models. One of the few left in Essex that caters for boats.
I just love to look around and pick up the odd bits, and hope to buy a new boat.
I don`t think you can beat the hands on type of shop, beats on-line any day.
Today`s visit was good until the owner, a very nice guy and helpful, told me that he was closing up in march due to lack of customers and the internet.
I feel it is a shame and a loss to our hobby, because we lose not only a shop, but also the joy of looking at what we are buying, and the free library of info from the owner. Not to mention the advertising of our hobby to everyone who passes.
I often see young lads looking and saying, "wow, look at that one". They are the future of boat models.
Maybe we should think twice before hitting the computer, before they all close, then the only newcomers will be those who notice the couple of mags or see one of the meetings(mostly attended by those already into boats).
No offense intended to those who sell by computer,I sometimes buy on-line too, but add the postage and the price is not so cheap and no newbies means no new sales, on-line or other.
Just my thoughts. I felt bad for the owner and for us. He say`s he has been in business more than 15 years.
Maybe you all think differently, just needed to get it out of my system.
Now you can hit back :(