LAND OF THE GIANTS

@georgeschire - My apologies, but I think I've failed to make myself clear.  I highly doubt that the Mints or anyone else is earning 75% profit.  In fact, I doubt any legal company in the world (Underground enterprises might see that kind of profit) is generating that kind of profit margin on a sustained basis.  What the Mints were likely doing was recouping the production cost with the first payment.  The remaining money was used to pay all of the other expenses like wages, shipping, packaging, warehousing, administrative, insurance, returns, cost of money, etc. The net profit is probably similar to most business enterprises and probably in the 5% to 9% range.

Interesting concept, George. If the market is truly that large and profits are so massive, you would think someone would step into this vacuum and make a killing in the market. Have you considered giving it a try?

Posted by: @marty-johnson

@georgeschire - My apologies, but I think I've failed to make myself clear.  I highly doubt that the Mints or anyone else is earning 75% profit.  In fact, I doubt any legal company in the world (Underground enterprises might see that kind of profit) is generating that kind of profit margin on a sustained basis.  What the Mints were likely doing was recouping the production cost with the first payment.  The remaining money was used to pay all of the other expenses like wages, shipping, packaging, warehousing, administrative, insurance, returns, cost of money, etc. The net profit is probably similar to most business enterprises and probably in the 5% to 9% range.

Thanks Marty.  You're probably right, or rather should I say, you are right.  I know you are.  This "why can't we have 1:24 scale models?", is an old and frustrating discussion.  Seems we revisit this topic every now and then, and we (or at least I) always come away feeling angry that there always seem to be so many excuses as to why they can't be produced.  But yet, there never seems to be a shortage of the little 1:43's and the big 1:18's.  I'll always stick to my guns that 1:24 can be and should be produced, and can be at a profit.  But alas, I may be alone.

@georgeschire - I'm pretty sure 1:43 is the most successful and vibrant diecast scale.  The high-end models are gorgeous, and the following are enormous!  I have a few but I'm glad I've generally stayed away from them.  If I didn't, my addictive personality would have me hooked on them.

One thing that's apparently true, nearly all the automobile kits out there now and from the past (as well as promos) were 1/24 or 1/25 scale. There are many terrific automobiles that are or were available at this scale. To a certain extent now and in the future, 3D printers and software (and people who offer this service) may allow for nearly any automobile model to be fabricated ..... either by one's self or by someone who will do this for you.

Posted by: @marty-johnson

@georgeschire - I'm pretty sure 1:43 is the most successful and vibrant diecast scale.  The high-end models are gorgeous, and the following are enormous!  I have a few but I'm glad I've generally stayed away from them.  If I didn't, my addictive personality would have me hooked on them.

I'll never understand the popularity of 1:43 and this is an old discussion too.  They are just too small.  At least for me they are.  I grew up with the 1:25 scale plastic model kits and the same scale promotional "friction" models.  And in those days, anything smaller than that scale were toys that kids played with in the sandbox.  Now I know today's 1:43 scale is certainly well replicated, but they are still too small.  But alas, it is what is today.  I personally will forever lament the demise of 1:24 scale.  It was proven that all three scales had their rabid audiences, and I will forever feel that there still could/should be.  Finally, so great chatting with you again Marty!  You've always been one of the real good guys on these Forums.