First Annual Lionel Warehouse Sale

The Polar Express sets were the new sets. Other than the Thomas sets without the remotes all the starter sets were current production, fresh off the boat items. The Lionel folks I talked to were surprised about the turnout. I told them I was not. There is no good shops in the area or other outlets to buy trains. They also did a very good job of getting the word out. The staff was also friendly and helpful, something the staffs at certain hobby shops could take a lesson from. The people who did not know answers to questions were very prompt about getting answers from someone who did. No walking into a shop and being treated as if you are a bother for being there and asking a few questions about a multi hundred dollar purchase. They plan on making this an annual event. Of course the old stuff from the Michigan facility is now gone but the prices on starter sets and other products will still draw a crowd.

I'd jumped on those SOU passenger cars myself.....good thing I didn't go!!!!!

I was really expecting this to be more for Lionel Die cast NASCAR and started set blow out. But there was a good selection of O scale items to be found even on Diesel Locomotives and on un-powered dummy units and passengers cars,

Yeah you had to fight a crowd of people and dig for what you where looking for but I know next time and be better prepared.(As in having more cash to spend!!)

Brian and S R Sean, agree with your comments.  Almost backed out on going as had some others projects in the fire along with thinking this would be a starter set deal such as the offering at Walmart several years back. 

Anyway, went by and got Lane and off we went.  Our first mistake was arriving at 0900.  When I saw the parking lot, knew we had made a goof.  Walked in the door and the crowd looked as if Walmart had opened a midnight on Thanksgiving night.  People were buying right and left. 

Here's a listing of my small purchase:

14092 Floodlight Tower at 25.00

6464-375 Central of Georgia Postwar Celebration Box Car at 10.00

6464-700 LRRC 50th Anniversary Box Car at 10.00

BNSF Mechanical Reefer at 15.00

I did have the opportunity to speak with several Lionel reps and give feedback.  In my opinion, the sale was an overwhelming success and hopefully will be annual event.  I believe there was four checkout lines.  In the future, suggested there by a least eight and separated away from the sale aisles.  I learned from this sale.  Just like Sean, I will have more money set aside plus I will arrive earlier.