Problem of multiple versions not being announced simultaneously (6 Viewers)

[Vezzolf]

Well as for me, I have a Figarti DD tank to pay for, and that's probabley gonna be it for me and Figarti, I love the Figarti products, but the primemover and 88 (winter) which I dearly wanted fell though with about 6 dealers, because they were all snapped up in hours, and even with all the new demand Rick has said 100 limit is it. I don't always have an extra 200-300 to spend on my collection within hours of a new Figarti release such as the new Hanomag rocket carrier, again a beauty of a vehicle but once again thet will probabley be all gone by next week, so I guess I'll be one of casulties of the 100 limit hope somewhere down the line Figarti will adjust the numbers a little higher for us middle income guys...Sammy

This post clearly explains the "utter nonsence" in ordering Figarti products at this time.......Brad,Lancer,Sammy, Phantom Warrior,mysellf and others have clearly expressed our legitimate complaints with Figarti's current marketing model of 100 (with only 60 available in the US).............I re-refer to post#25 and #45 on this thread........Although I am blessed with resources to make rapid purchases,I resent having to scramble like a dog trying to get a bone.......And I re-confirm to all horders and speculators that I personally will NEVER pay above retail for any Figarti products on ebay........let them sit on their multiple purchases.......Those of us with any sense will refuse to be manipulated into making foolish impulsive purchases either from manufacturer or speculators.....

 

[Phantom Warrior]

We have had similar discussions about limited editions in the K & C thread and I can appreciate the fact that limited production is an accepted method of stimulating sales. However I do not subscribe to Figart's idea of producing all releases in the same numbers.

With due respect to Rick and his crew I feel they should reconsider their fixed production number of say 100 examples. Clearly the more popular prototypes such as the German 88 mm and related Halftrack will attract more demand than less popular items such as the Launch Control vehicle - so why make them in the same numbers

I agree. The 100 strategy would be fine with most Figarti pieces but for obviously popular pieces, it just isn't enough. A larger first run or a limited 2nd run would solve that problem. Even just the likelihood of a limited 2nd run would cut down the number of people having to jump in to buy, several of whom are finding they have to resell it, didn't really want it in the first place, or wanted the item that came out 2 weeks later much more but have already spent their money. Especially since the pace of Figarti releases has really speeded up this year.

My only complaint is having to instantly respond to a few much wanted pieces.

Terry

 

[jazzeum]

I have received some pms saying that I am needlessly prolonging this issue when the positions are clear. I don't think so but since I've said what I think, I won't say any more.

In addition, I was also told as a Moderator I probably shouldn't be saying these things and how can I take the hat on and off, so to speak. I thought I had made it clear that I was speaking as a collector, not as a Moderator. If not, let me emphasize that I am speaking only as a collector and not as a Moderator.

If any of you have further concerns about that, I invite you to contact Shannon.

 

[lancer]

I have received some pms saying that I am needlessly prolonging this issue when the positions are clear. I don't think so but since I've said what I think, I won't say any more.

In addition, I was also told as a Moderator I probably shouldn't be saying these things and how can I take the hat on and off, so to speak. I thought I had made it clear that I was speaking as a collector, not as a Moderator. If not, let me emphasize that I am speaking only as a collector and not as a Moderator.

If any of you have further concerns about that, I invite you to contact Shannon.

The USA has a thing called free speech. Just because one takes on the responsibility of moderator, said individual does not fore-go his right to express his opinion on a given subject. There is no conflict of interest here. -- lancer

 

[tdubel]

Guys,

Here's another thought and I by no means have any further knowledge than you do. BUT, what happens if a company just wants to make limited editions, that is their niche in the market? Can you really complain about that? I understand the issue caused by the frequency of release (we are getting them all at once), but as a collector of a lot of things, I can tell you this is not necessarily odd. For example, I collect high end Royal Doulton Character Jugs (Military) and there is an annual release of a General that is made in 100 pieces world wide, cost $400 or so. When it comes out, you make a decision to buy or not buy, it also comes out unannounced or with only a week warning. Is this not a comparable example? They are only targeting 100 individuals to buy this one, maybe the same could be said for Figarti. You don't have to get every piece or any pieces.

I don't begrudge your viewpoints at all and it is a choice to buy or not, but I just feel the tone here is very adversarial, when it should just be nice product, either buy or not and move forward. Again, if that makes you not a customer, your choice, but I tend to view this on a one by one by one basis. Let's face it, toy soldiers are a hobby that breed upon impulse buying and opportunity across the board!

And finally, who cares about the speculators, that is a free market, that is how any market works, I don't begrudge anybody making a buck. Should it be right for a very small dealer to buy 3 and put 2 on ebay, probably not, BUT that is an issue that should be dealt with by owner and wholesaler, not the collector, not to be blunt, but really none of my business or concern. Rick and Andy don't use the "red line" and call every collector everytime they make a business decision and I feel like we are drifting and have into that debate. Let's just take it for what it is and each form your own opinion and decision. I feel like all sides are preaching without logic, just passionate opinion. I have tried (to my best) to state this logically without opinion where possible.

TD

 

[jazzeum]

I took a look at my post from last evening and they were probably a bit over the top so I've deleted them. The post wasn't necessary since I think I and others had already expressed our points of view so it really added nothing.

What do I know about Rick's business strategy? Not a thing nor should I. A company should stick to its strategy if it feels it's the right one. Since Rick is a successful businessman in other areas, who am I to offer guidance on those areas? I'm basically a collector who shouldn't have to worry about that kind of thing although I always find business and how this industry works fascinating.

My apologies to Rick, his team and Figarti for those comments. I will continue to support Figarti in the best way I can (including with my $$s ) and as we speak I hope to have the Priest in the near future.

 

[nasirkasmani]

I took a look at my post from last evening and they were probably a bit over the top so I've deleted them. The post wasn't necessary since I think I and others had already expressed our points of view so it really added nothing.

What do I know about Rick's business strategy? Not a thing nor should I. A company should stick to its strategy if it feels it's the right one. Since Rick is a successful businessman in other areas, who am I to offer guidance on those areas? I'm basically a collector who shouldn't have to worry about that kind of thing although I always find business and how this industry works fascinating.

My apologies to Rick, his team and Figarti for those comments. I will continue to support Figarti in the best way I can (including with my $$s ) and as we speak I hope to have the Priest in the near future.

i don't think deleting is necessary but fair play to you brad.

 

[gk5717]

I think both sides have valid points on this issue, but here is something that might help. If you have a regular dealer as I do, I think they could work with you on some of these releases. In other words hold an item for you until you get the resources. Not forever mind you, but within a reasonable time frame.
Gary

 

[Phantom Warrior]

I took a look at my post from last evening and they were probably a bit over the top so I've deleted them. The post wasn't necessary since I think I and others had already expressed our points of view so it really added nothing.

What do I know about Rick's business strategy? Not a thing nor should I. A company should stick to its strategy if it feels it's the right one. Since Rick is a successful businessman in other areas, who am I to offer guidance on those areas? I'm basically a collector who shouldn't have to worry about that kind of thing although I always find business and how this industry works fascinating.

My apologies to Rick, his team and Figarti for those comments. I will continue to support Figarti in the best way I can (including with my $$s ) and as we speak I hope to have the Priest in the near future.

Is no one safe from Jazzeum's deletions

Terry

 

[Kurt]

This hobby really fascinates me regarding how receptive the producers are to the voice of the customer. Even though the producers may not heed our suggestions, they always listen and care. What other hobby or area of interest has something like this? What we are able to do in this hobby is the equivalent of being able to discuss game strategy to an NFL coach or recommend a film project to Steven Spielberg. I make that comparison because my toy soldier collecting as big a part of my leisure time as movies or sports, actually more so.

 

[jazzeum]

Is no one safe from Jazzeum's deletions

Terry

Sometimes you learn to moderate even yourself

 

[OzDigger]

Guys,

Here's another thought and I by no means have any further knowledge than you do. BUT, what happens if a company just wants to make limited editions, that is their niche in the market? Can you really complain about that? I understand the issue caused by the frequency of release (we are getting them all at once), but as a collector of a lot of things, I can tell you this is not necessarily odd. For example, I collect high end Royal Doulton Character Jugs (Military) and there is an annual release of a General that is made in 100 pieces world wide, cost $400 or so. When it comes out, you make a decision to buy or not buy, it also comes out unannounced or with only a week warning. Is this not a comparable example? They are only targeting 100 individuals to buy this one, maybe the same could be said for Figarti. You don't have to get every piece or any pieces.

I don't begrudge your viewpoints at all and it is a choice to buy or not, but I just feel the tone here is very adversarial, when it should just be nice product, either buy or not and move forward. Again, if that makes you not a customer, your choice, but I tend to view this on a one by one by one basis. Let's face it, toy soldiers are a hobby that breed upon impulse buying and opportunity across the board!

And finally, who cares about the speculators, that is a free market, that is how any market works, I don't begrudge anybody making a buck. Should it be right for a very small dealer to buy 3 and put 2 on ebay, probably not, BUT that is an issue that should be dealt with by owner and wholesaler, not the collector, not to be blunt, but really none of my business or concern. Rick and Andy don't use the "red line" and call every collector everytime they make a business decision and I feel like we are drifting and have into that debate. Let's just take it for what it is and each form your own opinion and decision. I feel like all sides are preaching without logic, just passionate opinion. I have tried (to my best) to state this logically without opinion where possible.

TD

I admit to being a passionate collector, but surely it's logical to adjust production numbers to match anticipated sales rather than release a fixed number such as 100 or whatever.

Of course the owners and to some extent the wholesalers have the final say on numbers produced. However wouldn't it be logical for them to base their decisions on what they think the major industry stakeholders (collectors) will buy.

Of course there is the fact that we collectors are a fickle bunch so they may as well just make what they like

 

[tdubel]

I admit to being a passionate collector, but surely it's logical to adjust production numbers to match anticipated sales rather than release a fixed number such as 100 or whatever.

Of course the owners and to some extent the wholesalers have the final say on numbers produced. However wouldn't it be logical for them to base their decisions on what they think the major industry stakeholders (collectors) will buy.

Of course there is the fact that we collectors are a fickle bunch so they may as well just make what they like

Hi OZ,

Not being privy to the business plan and vision/goals of the companies, hard to say, I only gleaned my opinion from Rick's own post where he indicates on average what works for them. I think that if the releases were spread out more, a lot of this would not be happening, but having 5 home runs in a row would strain anyone's budget and imagination!

TD

 

[Njja]

As I said before look at the Vietnam PBR, Seal Craft, Seal team, mule, Normandy Tiger, Fuel Truck, V2 Launch Vehicle ect you will see many items produced in quanities of 100 and still available.

Ricks point of limiting quanities so his dealers are not stuck with unsold inventory is a valid business point. If he can make a profit while producing 100 items you really have to give him credit.

I'm sure he watches as some items sell out, and will make the necessary adjustments he sees fit to conform to his business plan and objectives.

Just my thoughts.

 

[Phantom Warrior]

As I said before look at the Vietnam PBR, Seal Craft, Seal team, mule, Normandy Tiger, Fuel Truck, V2 Launch Vehicle ect you will see many items produced in quanities of 100 and still available.

Ricks point of limiting quanities so his dealers are not stuck with unsold inventory is a valid business point. If he can make a profit while producing 100 items you really have to give him credit.

I'm sure he watches as some items sell out, and will make the necessary adjustments he sees fit to conform to his business plan and objectives.

Just my thoughts.

I'm confident he will adjust. We just gave him some feedback to consider in making whatever changes he wants.

Terry

 

[tdubel]

I'm confident he will adjust. We just gave him some feedback to consider in making whatever changes he wants.

Terry

Terry,
while I am sure most manufacturers take our feedback into account regarding possible models, suggestions, etc., I doubt production pointers is one they listen to. Not out of rudeness, but merely out of their own particular business goals and plans. Now, demand however, is I am sure duly noted and if in the future there is an item with strong demand, maybe more will come!
TD

 

[spartan71]

I do not know what else, to say about this. And I have to agree that it has been adversarial at times, but what has caught me by suprise is that, some of those times it has come from a Moderator of this forum. A moderator by definition is:
1 : one who arbitrates : mediator
2 : one who presides over an assembly, meeting, or discussion: as a : the presiding officer of a Presbyterian governing body b : the nonpartisan presiding officer of a town meeting c : the chairman of a discussion group
And you already know what caught my eye, because it is what I think a moderator is. The non-partisan presiding officer of a meeting. well in this case the forum. Because If the moderator is leaning a certain way, then he is not moderating anymore( he is like a judge on a court room, he can only mediate, what is happening. But never in his words can sway anything one way or another. he must always be neutral). Someone who has that authority. Can not say I am changing hats, And give an opinion. and later moderates. Because then he is partisan. And therefore can not be the moderator anymore. Someone says its freedom of speech. Well, maybe for everyone. But the moderator, NO. Because he should always be NEUTRAL.
Just my opinion of course.

 

[Njja]

Yes but they can certainly have an opinion.

Now if they are disagreeing with you and editing your posts I would think it would be smart to deferr to another moderator.

Of course I haven't seen all the action.....so I'm just hoping it has been
smooth.

 

[Phantom Warrior]

Terry,
while I am sure most manufacturers take our feedback into account regarding possible models, suggestions, etc., I doubt production pointers is one they listen to. Not out of rudeness, but merely out of their own particular business goals and plans. Now, demand however, is I am sure duly noted and if in the future there is an item with strong demand, maybe more will come!
TD

That's true. By suggestion I meant only for Figarti to watch out for long awaited, much in demand models and make provisions to have more than 100 of those few issues.

Terry

 

[spartan71]

Smooth as Landing a plane on an aircraft carrier.