Interview: Model railways - thriving through evolution
With the recent de-listing of Hornby from the London stock exchange, some newspaper headlines have yielded mixed opinions about the state of the model railway industry. Some claim it’s struggling against modern pressures like digital entertainment and shrinking living spaces. Meanwhile, others believe it’s evolving in new and exciting ways. As one of the UK's largest and growing model retailers, we see first-hand the health of the hobby, and side with those who understand that model-building and model collecting is fighting fit.
Chris Yates owner of The Model Centre (TMC) shares his take on where the industry stands, and how business continues to thrive, adapt, and inspire new generations of enthusiasts.
TMC has expended significantly in recent years, taking on knowledgable staff from defunct retailer Hatton's Model Railways. Known for market-leading prices and great value sales, modernising and restructuring its online business has been its most-recent acheivement, now seeing many thousands of orders leaving its premises every week.
A Golden Age for modellers
Despite economic headwinds and lifestyle shifts, Chris believes the industry is in what he calls a “Golden Period”.
“From the consumer perspective, the hobby is thriving,” he begins, “there are so many regular releases from a multitude of manufacturers in differing (and new) scales. O gauge, OO, TT, N - even narrow-gauge - there are options for all to suit different budgets”.
"The hobby is doing well thanks to all the investment in new models from manufacturers. And, thanks to the incredible work done by employees and volunteers on our preserved heritage railways, we see first-hand the level of interest and enjoyment it engenders to young and old alike. The North Yorks Moors Railway is on our doorstep - we're so lucky to have this magnificent railway running past the farm and shop. We always get our daily fix of steam- and diesel-hauled trains!
“We see first-hand the joy it brings. It's a daily reminder of the hobby’s magic and how it connects generations.”
The Model Centre has garnered a reputation in the quality customisation of models, and an almost 'cult status' among followers for its unique graffiti models, too.
Resilience in the face of challenges
The recent news that Hornby delisted from the stock market raised eyebrows, but Chris sees it as part of a larger trend in global business volatility — something TMC has weathered before.
“We did well during the 2008 banking crisis and flourished through the 2020–21 pandemic lockdowns,” he notes. “We’re continuing to invest and expand, but we’re prepared to consolidate if needed until the turbulence passes.”
At TMC, resilience is built on a foundation of quality, value, and exceptional service. Values that haven’t changed in 28 years and counting.
Myth-busting
There’s a lingering idea that model railways are an expensive, space-hungry hobby. "Not true", says Chris.
“You don’t need lots of space or a large budget, although they help,” he jokes. “People are ingenious. If the interest is there, modellers will always find a way.”
Indeed, adapting to modern living is part of the joy. Compact layouts, modular builds, and digital tools are all making it easier for hobbyists to get involved, no matter their circumstances.
Providing customers with the level of product knowledge they expect - online, in store or at exhibitions.
The industry is embracing tech like never before. From directional lighting and realistic steam, to sound-enabled locomotives and Digital Command Control (DCC), today’s models offer incredible levels of detail and interactivity.
“Digital sound for steam and diesel locomotives is very popular,” Chris says. “The technology enhances the realism and greatens the level of enjoyment.”
Lockdown legacy and new audiences
One of the most promising shifts in recent years has been the influx of younger enthusiasts and families, especially during and after the pandemic.
“Lockdown created a terrific resurgence,” Chris says. “It mobilised parents and grandparents to build layouts for their children or grandchildren. That momentum hasn’t stopped."
Whether it's Paddington Bear, Thomas the Tank Engine, or the Hogwarts Express, railways have a way of capturing the imagination. But, TMC’s success lies in its ability to serve both the seasoned collector and the curious beginner alike.
“Our staff have ‘the knowledge’ — just like London taxi drivers,” Chris laughs. “We can guide a complete novice or seasoned enthusiast alike.”
This inclusive, community-focused approach has paid off. TMC continues to expand, most recently by growing its offering of pre-owned models and investing in its talented team.
“Retaining experienced, passionate staff is just as important as the products we sell.”
Pre-owned models - an area of significant recent growth in the hobby to which TMC has adapted, with a new specialised processing premises in Golborne, Greater Manchester.
A growing industry
Model railways are more alive than ever. And they’re evolving to become more accessible, more interactive, and more imaginative, but its heart, the hobby remains unchanged - creativity, nostalgia, craftsmanship, and connection.
At The Model Centre, we’re proud to be part of this vibrant community, helping it steam ahead into the future, one beautiful model at a time.
