Hey guys thanks for posting
I do apologise for my recent lack of well, anything. I did change job, and my Daughter signed for Liverpool FC, and time is at a real premium. When it settles down I fully intend to return to this.
In relation to some of the comments, and I apologise if i miss some
1) Exchange rates. so... these have been up and down a lot, at some stages this has made the project nonviable, and at others it's "ok" again. It's not just the actual exchange rate, it's those chaps in China putting costs up as they realise they can make more money, pay people more, improve living standards and whatnot. This is a common theme across this hobby as we see annual rises from the big boys, some of which can be quite eye watering. This was never really an "excuse" just a statement of fact at that moment in time.
2) I have not said whom I would be working with, as while everything was discussed, pricing set etc, no formal agreement was signed, and as that manufacturer has been cancelling or delaying models, to announce they are involved in this could have caused them some trouble, especially with nothing signed between us. For information, there is a backup option, though said company does not produce N gauge in the UK at this time... they do make some rather nice models however for other markets.
3) People undercutting . . I am aware that at least one, possibly two manufacturers have had the N2 on the discussion lists in house. Neither of those companies was actually willing to quote a commission at the time I asked, although I think one of them at least would probably be more willing too if the process started again. This was always at the back of my mind however. If we started this, started bringing money in, and then it was announced it would have been a bit awkward. Look what happened when both Revolution and DJM announced an N gauge 92.... (I ordered one off each btw)
I will be the first to hold my hands up and say the whole thing can be quite daunting, as mentioned Revolution have done a fab job to date and I would love to see more companies come along and have a go. Ben and Mike seem to have a great relationship with Rapido, and I certainly envied that as I tried to get going.
There is some interest in an N2, of that there is no doubt Is there enough for a minimum manufacturers run? That is of course the big question.
Guys, I am happy to talk, happy for you to message me and I promise I will get back on the case and will let you know all the details before I even think of asking for money!
thanks