Model Shops

Considering that model kits remain such a popular hobby for young and old alike in the UK, it can strangely difficult to find decent model shops.

It seems that, all too often, model shops have largely been replaced by the large high street toy shops (with the largest of all being the omni-present Toys R Us). Is this necessarily a bad thing?

Many of us think so. The demise of the model shops of our youth means that we no longer have the opportunity to enter those wonderful old stores with their endless rows of kits. It may be that we look back on such times through rose-tinted spectacles, but it did once seem as though all decent model shops were run by real enthusiasts - true experts at modelling.

These days model kits are often hidden away, making shelf space available for pastimes that undoubtedly bring shop owners a greater return for their investment.

The demise of model shops is by no means a solitary tale. Increasingly, it seems to me, consumers are becoming fed up by the dominance of large stores in many sectors. While traditional shops struggle to survive when faced by increasing rents and competition, the "big names" seem to grow from strength to strength.

Residents in some small towns have decided to hit back, favouring local businesses over nationwide chains. This approach is often occurring on an organised level. If it helps bring back model shops then it can only be a good thing.