The model railway community has expressed outrage over Hornby’s newly released Avanti West Coast-liveried Class 805 train, priced at a staggering £550. Many enthusiasts consider the price tag “ridiculous,” especially when compared to similar models offered by competing brands at significantly lower prices, often around £100 less. The high cost has ignited a debate about Hornby’s pricing strategy and the perceived value proposition offered by their products, particularly in light of the company’s reported financial difficulties. The criticism extends beyond just the Class 805, with collectors expressing concern over the escalating prices across Hornby’s Autumn 2025 range, including a £450 Greater Anglia train with Pride livery. This perceived disconnect between price and value has left many loyal customers feeling alienated and questioning Hornby’s future direction.
The core of the discontent stems from the belief that Hornby is relying on its established brand name and historical legacy rather than delivering competitive quality and pricing. Critics argue that newer manufacturers are offering superior models with greater detail and functionality at significantly lower costs. This perceived disparity in value has led some enthusiasts to question whether Hornby’s products justify their premium price tags. Experienced modellers like Matt Hill from Leeds have voiced their disappointment, expressing that paying such high prices for a locomotive should elicit a “wow” factor that Hornby’s recent offerings seem to lack. This sentiment resonates with many in the community, who feel that the quality of Hornby’s models has not kept pace with the rising prices.
The online backlash against the £550 Class 805 has been particularly strong, with some enthusiasts labeling the price as “totally deluded.” This negative reaction underscores the growing dissatisfaction within the model railway community regarding Hornby’s pricing strategy. The criticism is not limited to the flagship Class 805; the entire Autumn 2025 range has come under scrutiny for its perceived high prices. This widespread concern highlights the widening gap between Hornby’s pricing and the perceived value offered to its customer base, a trend that could have long-term consequences for the company’s market share and brand reputation.
Hornby, founded in 1901 and based in Margate, Kent, currently carries a substantial debt burden of £19 million and is receiving financial advice from former Newcastle FC owner Mike Ashley. This financial precariousness adds another layer of complexity to the pricing controversy. While the company attributes the rising costs to increased production demands, including more complex designs and higher-quality components, this explanation has not been well-received by the model railway community. Many enthusiasts remain skeptical, arguing that the price increases are disproportionate to the improvements in quality and features.
The company maintains that the higher prices reflect the greater detail and advanced technology incorporated into their models. They emphasize the meticulous craftsmanship and increased number of components required to achieve the high standards demanded by collectors. However, this justification has failed to appease many longtime customers, who perceive a stark contrast between the perceived quality of Hornby’s models and their escalating prices. This divergence in perception highlights a critical challenge for Hornby: balancing the need to address its financial challenges with the imperative to maintain its customer base and brand loyalty.
The controversy surrounding Hornby’s pricing underscores the complex dynamics of the model railway market. The company faces the challenge of navigating a changing landscape where newer competitors are offering compelling alternatives at more competitive prices. Furthermore, the company’s significant debt burden adds pressure to its pricing decisions. Hornby’s ability to reconcile its financial realities with the expectations of its customer base will ultimately determine its long-term success in the increasingly competitive model railway market. Addressing the concerns of its loyal customers, demonstrating a commitment to value, and regaining their trust will be crucial for Hornby’s future. This incident also tragically highlights the vulnerability of model railway exhibitions, where dedicated enthusiasts’ work can be destroyed by senseless acts of vandalism, further adding to the challenges faced by the community.
