Fleischmann CEO：Nightjet特別版全港只有兩套
Roco和Fleischmann母公司Modelleisenbahn GmbH CEO Björn Döring早前訪港，《手推車》把握機會問問品牌未來大計，除了大賣的Nightjet將推特別版而香港只分到一到兩套外，竟然聽到Doring對日本JR有興趣，唔通有朝一日會見到Fleischmann出新幹線n車？
以受歡迎程度而言OBB夜行列車Nighthet (1216 012-5)無出其右，雖然全編車價相當但仍叫好叫座，Doring表示「未來我們將推出特別版，香港市場可能只分配到一至兩套」，有愛的似乎要及早行動。另一套大熱的是鐵道鏟雪車Beilhack Snow Blower，憑藉特殊的外型及功能性成為各地買家的熱搜車款。
Doring香港之行亦與零售商會面以了解最新市場情況，由於網購盛行，對實體店的造成很大壓力，買家亦表示傾向購買全編多於基本加增結套裝。同時，雖然公司方向是推廣DCC數碼車，但傳統DC系統的增長顯然更快，因此Doring緊接前往日本向當地取經。
至於未來，Doring笑言對日本JR列車感到相當有興趣，不過仍維持在概念階段。想見到Fleischmann出日本列車的朋友可能要再等等。
All Aboard: Insights from Modelleisenbahn GmbH’s CEO Björn Döring During His Hong Kong Visit
A Journey to the Heart of Model Railroading
In the ever-evolving world of model railroading, staying ahead of trends and understanding market dynamics is crucial. Björn Döring, CEO of Modelleisenbahn GmbH—the powerhouse behind renowned brands Roco and Fleischmann—embarked on an insightful journey to Asia, with a significant stop in Hong Kong. His visit provided a deep dive into the latest trends, challenges, and exciting developments shaping the model train landscape.
Navigating the New Sourcing Model
During his time in Hong Kong, Döring engaged in vibrant discussions with local dealers who are the lifeblood of the model train community. A key observation from these interactions was the shift towards direct online purchasing. This new sourcing model is transforming the distribution landscape by enabling customers to buy directly online, presenting both challenges and opportunities for traditional dealers. The move towards online sales is opening up avenues for reaching a broader audience, compelling traditional outlets to adapt and integrate digital strategies to stay relevant in an increasingly online marketplace.
Nightjet N-Scale: Capturing Enthusiasts’ Hearts
One of the standout highlights from Döring’s visit was the remarkable popularity of the Electric Locomotive 1216 012-5 “Nightjet” in N-scale. Enthusiasts have shown a strong affinity for its intricate design and authentic detailing, making it a favorite among collectors. Adding to the excitement, a special edition of the Nightjet is set to launch soon. However, availability in Hong Kong will be limited to just one or two sets, creating an exclusive opportunity for dedicated collectors in the region. This limited release strategy is expected to ignite demand and cater to the area’s passionate model train enthusiasts.
Snow Blower N-Scale: Enhancing Operational Realism
Another exciting product that garnered attention during the visit is the *Beilhack Snow Blower, DB AG* in N-scale. This model is celebrated for its advanced features and authentic representation of Deutsche Bahn’s snow-clearing equipment. The Beilhack snow blower addresses a critical aspect of rail operations—snow removal—and is highly sought-after by enthusiasts aiming to replicate realistic railway scenarios.
The DC vs. DCC Paradigm: A Digital Dilemma
A significant portion of the discussions focused on digital control systems, specifically the ongoing transition from Direct Current (DC) to Digital Command Control (DCC). Modelleisenbahn GmbH aims to encourage the community to adopt DCC for a more versatile and realistic operating experience. Despite these efforts, current trends indicate that DC is growing at a faster pace than DCC. This discrepancy underscores the need for continued education and innovative solutions to accelerate the shift towards digital control. To gain a deeper understanding of these dynamics, Döring recently visited Japan—a market renowned for its vibrant model train culture—to gather insights and strategies that could inform the company’s approach moving forward.
Expanding Horizons: JR Train Models and More
During his visit, Döring mentioned the idea of developing models of Japan Railways (JR) trains in a lighthearted conversation, indicating that while it’s an intriguing concept, it remains more of an exploratory thought than a concrete plan. This playful consideration reflects the company’s openness to expanding its portfolio based on market interest and demand.
Additionally, the Beilhack snow blower in N-scale was highlighted as a particularly popular product, demonstrating the diverse interests within the model train community. Such innovations reflect Modelleisenbahn GmbH’s commitment to catering to a wide range of modeling preferences and enhancing the overall hobby experience.
Full Sets Over Basics: Meeting Evolving Preferences
Looking ahead, Döring emphasized a strategic shift towards offering complete model sets rather than just basic sets with extensions. This approach aims to provide a comprehensive experience right out of the box, catering to both beginners and seasoned hobbyists who value convenience and completeness. By focusing on full sets, Modelleisenbahn GmbH is aligning its offerings with the growing preference for hassle-free, ready-to-run models that deliver immediate satisfaction without the need for extensive customization or additional purchases. This move ensures that hobbyists can enjoy a complete and immersive experience from the start.
Collaborating and Educating: Building a Stronger Community
Throughout his visit, Döring fostered collaborative discussions with local dealers, sharing valuable insights on expediting train launches to better meet market demands. Recognizing that model trains represent a significant investment for customers, the company is committed to educating the market on the additional value these models offer. Whether through enhanced functionality, superior craftsmanship, or the immersive experiences they provide, Modelleisenbahn GmbH aims to ensure that enthusiasts fully appreciate the intricate value of their model trains. By fostering a collaborative environment and emphasizing education, the company seeks to strengthen its community and support the sustained growth of the hobby.
Looking Ahead: A Promising Future for Modelleisenbahn GmbH
Björn Döring’s visit to Hong Kong not only highlights Modelleisenbahn GmbH’s dedication to understanding and adapting to global market trends but also underscores the company’s commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. As the industry navigates the balance between traditional practices and modern advancements, Modelleisenbahn GmbH stands at the forefront, ready to lead the way.
With exciting new releases on the horizon, including the special edition Nightjet and playful considerations for potential JR train models, alongside advanced products like the N-scale Beilhack snow blower, the future looks bright for both the company and the passionate community it serves.
