Hattons Model Railways has announced “with immense sadness” that it will cease trading after 77 years.
The announcement was made “with immense sadness” and spoke of the privilege to “serve enthusiasts and share our passion for model railways with hundreds of thousands of customers.”
Founded in 1946, the business operated in Liverpool until 2016, when it moved to Widnes.
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Hattons emphasised that the business was not insolvent and would be wound down in an orderly fashion.
The announcement cited a changing market, including declining customer numbers, changing customer demographics and supply chain disruption. Increased cost of compliance were also mentioned as a factor, including Brexit.
Although no official closing date has yet been announced, Hattons has launched a closing down sale.
The business has also put together a page of FAQs for customers with questions, including regarding pre-orders.
Following the announcement of the closure on Hattons Model Railways’ Facebook page, customers and enthusiasts shared their sadness and memories in the comments.
“Big loss for the modeling world, Best of luck to everyone x” said Warren Allmark.
Peter Whatley said “How very sad for the model industry, but most of all for the staff affected. I’ve dipped in and out of model railways over the past 50+ years, but Hattons have always been there. I guess we all thought you always would be. I wish everyone involved with Hattons the very best for their futures.”
