Our BIG news that I've been hinting at for the last couple of emails: we've got some new shelving at Train Trax HQ and have filled it up with HO/OO gauge KATO unitrack. As many subscribers here will know, Unitrack is a top-quality product, and while we're expecting N gauge to remain the most popular for us, we kept getting asked for HO gauge track, so we've decided to find space to stock the whole range. Shop the HO/OO range here.
As a reminder, any Kato item not listed on the website can be obtained to order, subject to availability, we source KATO items from the USA, Japan and Europe. So if you are just starting your layout or you are a seasoned Unitrack modeller we endeavour to have the products you are looking for! Why not get hold of a catalogue to browse the whole range on paper? We can also supply other items distributed by Gaugemaster on request.
During this quieter summer period we've been improving the photographs that appear on the website. Starting with the N gauge, you can now see high-res photos of nearly all the track in packaging. We'd love to know what other photos or information would be useful when choosing track pieces? Do you have any other ideas for how we can improve the website? Get in touch
After sending this email, we're having a long weekend so there will be no despatch on Monday 24th July. Thanks for your patience.
Our normal target is to despatch same working day (for order places before 1pm-ish), but deliveries may be slower than normal for the next six weeks, as it's the school summer holidays. Please allow for orders to be shipped 2-3 days after ordering. Thanks for your patience!
In these emails I often talk about the latest releases of Trains and Locomotives from Japan or the USA, so I wanted the emphasis this time to be about the excellent Unitrack. If you haven't tried it, Unitrack is a high-quality, pre-assembled track system that is known for its accuracy, durability, and ease of use. It is the perfect choice for modelers who want to create realistic and detailed train layouts without frustration. Made in Japan, Unitrack has a tough plastic base and the HO version uses code 83 rail. It is fully compatible with most HO and OO gauge trains. Give it a go, whether you model in 2mm, 4mm or both scales!
I'm sure I'll have something more about the latest trains in my next email. Until then...
Best wishes,
Ian on behalf of
Train Trax UK
July 2023 news from Train Trax UK
This is the first of our regular newsletters sent via a new system, we hope it looks OK and it gets received as well as previous emails. Let us know what you think.
A few important bits of news for you in this edition:
1. Latest KatoUSA announcement came towards the end of June - New Chicago Metra Locos:
The MP36PH is a diesel locomotive built in 2003 by MotivePower, Inc. (MPI) to tow commuter trains in the U.S. and Canada. For Chicago Metra, these MP36PH locomotives are routinely seen with double-decker Gallery Bi-Level cars in push-pull operation. In the Chicagoland area, they transport around 300,000 people each day! Starting in 2020, the entire roof of the locomotive was painted black to make soot stains on the roof less noticeable. These locomotives are perfect to double-head with other Chicago Metra locomotives such as the MP36PH with regular paint or the F40PH! The new road numbers will be #403 & #424.
DC/Analogue and DCC versions available to pre-order below. Expected towards the end of the year.
2. From Japan the announcement includes the stylish Series 283 'Ocean Arrow' (pictured top of email), Series E231-1000 Tokaido Line, EF65 2000 Revival JNR color, and Hankyu Railway Series 9300 Kyoto Line which we rather like the look of.
Also announced is a single module T-TRAK kit... We think it's great that KATO are doing a module kit, and supporting the ever more popular T-TRAK system. We did send some kits to Japan last year, so we're unsurprised that their's does look a little bit like the NGS Yorkshire Area Group one that we sell. We still think ours is better, but we'll still stock both to give folk a choice.
All available to pre-order below.
3. As you may have seen on our Facebook page, the 2023 glossy paper catalogue has also recently arrived in stock, along with some back copies of the 2022 catalogue too if you missed it. Both are mostly Japanese text but a picture says a 1000 words (machine translation with a smartphone works well). American outline is not included.
I'd hoped to share another bit of news with you, but the stock has not yet arrived as hoped, so there's a BIG empty gap on the shelves for the moment. I promise it will be ready for my next email - in the meantime keep an eye on the TrainTrax social media channels for updates.
Best wishes,
Ian on behalf of
Train Trax UK
More June 2023 news from Train Trax UK
A few bits of behind the scenes news from Train Trax this time, as well as some more arrivals from KatoUSA and re-stocks of T-TRAK module kits.
Behind the scenes:
1. This is (probably) the last email that you get from us using this emailing tool. In the future our emails might well look a bit different as I'll be moving to something new. Your details are still safe and I fully respect your right to opt-in or opt-out as you choose. The new tool will eventually help me to send emails which are a bit more tailored to you. I hope to also follow up orders automatically to make sure everything is as expected.
2. We've been re-organising Train Trax HQ a bit recently. Jonathan has been putting his many skills to use making things a bit more comfortable (we have a mini kitchen now), as well as creating more space for new stuff coming next month. Hopefully we're now set for greater efficiencies to keep up with the ever-growing demand. If you want to drop in and have a look then you're welcome, but you must let us know beforehand.
3. We're signed up to have a stand at The International N Gauge Show (TINGS) at the Warwickshire Event Centre. It's going to be on Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th September 2023. Stick it in your diaries now if you haven't already - we'll see you there. You might find a flyer in your next order pass it to someone else if not interested.
4. I've also been working on some other stuff which I'll probably announce in my next email. Bigger news!
And also... I recently discovered the largest Japanese railway layout in the UK. It's one of the exhibits at Wroxham Miniature Worlds, which seems to be one of the best kept secrets of the modelling community.
I found my visit an inspiration in various ways - it was so good to see a full KATO layout in the flesh and at scale. I've written up a few of my thoughts after the visit and included some more photos for you to have a look at:
Thanks must go to the friendly folk there for taking the time to chat with me.
Arrivals
Recently arrived from KatoUSA are the 4 versions of the EMD SD70M Flat Radiator, in Norfolk Southern and UP liveries.
I've also received re-stocks of many of the popular Glacier express sets, Kato's most recent revision of the Swiss RhB N gauge (1:150) range, as well as the Turntable mentioned in my last email which I've restocked at a special price.
Also worth a mention is that I have a full range of T-TRAK module kits available again. If you want more than two sent to the same address please do get in touch as I can offer generous discounts due to the way the postage charges work.
Looking ahead
As well as new email systems and TINGS to look forward to, there are a few changes to the website planned over the next couple of months, as well as some summer holidays. Thanks in advance for your patience during those times!
Have a great weekend (hopefully with lots of trains).
Best wishes.
Ian
June 2023 news from Train Trax UK
There's lots to include in this email. Keep reading to the end as that's where you'll find the discounts!
I took a few days break last week, this included a family trip to the wonderful Beamish museum. I spotted this tucked away near the loos, which reminded me rather a lot of the little Pocket Line shunters. I do hope it sees a bit of TLC in the future.
Arrivals:
Back to the world of models, and I think the biggest news is that Big Boy is on the way (in fact by the time you've read this I've probably begun to despatch). I've managed to secure an extra allocation of all three versions of this iconic locomotive, so if you missed out on a pre-order it's not too late to add one. See below for links.
From the biggest steam loco, to the smallest in the KATO range, more of the little 'OBB' pocket line steam sets arrived last week. These are very popular.
We've also managed to get hold of some more of the latest batch of KATO Unitrack turntables. Only three currently in stock. Yes, the price has gone up on this but there were problems with electronic component availability at the factory which means production was limited and the price had to rise (I believe it had been static for years).
The other arrival of of note is the rest of the DCC sound fitted GE ES44 locos from KatoUSA. There's just one of each of livery available - order quickly if you want one as these are normally only available to special order. As there's been quite a few Sound Fitted Kato USA locos arriving over the last few weeks (and more to come!); I've put together a little guide to what your options are if you want your Kato trains to make noise.
Announcements:
At the beginning of the month KATO Japan made their regular announcement. Compared to last month there are fewer items, but they might well be of interest. See below for pre-order links.
June Sale:
It's time for a rolling stock clearance sale. The company end-of-year stock taking is coming up, so we need to reduce stock to make everything a bit more manageable and make room for new items. Some shelves are groaning a bit.
You'll find some massive savings (more than 30% in some cases) on Japanese, North American and European trains. Browse https://traintrax.co.uk/sale or go to each category page and look for the items marked 'Sale'. These items will not be restocked (generally the distributers are now out of stock) and reductions will end Monday 19th June. More items may be added as the week goes on. Keep an eye on the Train Trax Facebook page for notifications of this.
Again I'll be running some trains this weekend with the Yorkshire Area Group. I hope you find some time in the next few days to enjoy your collection or layout. In my next email I'll be featuring an amazing layout I've recently been to visit.
Best wishes.
Ian
May 2023 news from Train Trax UK
As ever, it has been fairly eventful in my world since my last email. I enjoyed meeting those who came along to the Train Trax open days, and I had a great time at the N Gauge Society show. As a result of some of the interesting conversations I have all sorts of plans developing for the future.
You may have heard some rumours which emerged from Mr Kato's talks at the show. I confirmed with him that the current plan is for more Class 800 releases later this year, and next spring. This will probably include 9 car versions, the Paddington GWR livery and new numbers, although details are far from finalised. KATO is committed to the UK market with these so watch this space...
We'll also see more of the fun mini-diorama's at TINGS and Warley - you'll be able to sign up to join in these mini-circuses nearer the time but the diorama bases are in stock now.
Golden Month
The beginning of May is part of 'Golden Week' in Japan, a series of spring holidays. To celebrate this I'm offering 10% off all models of Japanese trains. Use the code 'golden10' at checkout before the end of the month. There's some additional reductions on some Japanese trains too - I need to clear some stock to make room for various items arriving in June and July.
New starter
I'm pleased to announce that Jonathan Scott as joined me as a part time assistant to Train Trax HQ. I forgot to take a picture, but here's what he has to say for himself:
"I'm 47 years old, and live near Keighley, West Yorkshire with my wife and 2 step kids, aged 8 and 16. As well as working at Model Railway Magic, I have my own business, JSModels, designing and producing laser-cut model kits.
I'm passionate about model railways, and always happy to learn new skills. I've been an N gauge modeller since childhood, and although I moved over to OO gauge a few years ago, I still love N gauge. Kato appeals to me because of the 'system' approach, and the variety & level of detail in the rolling stock.
I'm looking forward to working with Ian to develop and grow Kato within the UK"
Bear with us if there's any hiccups whilst Jonathan gets familiar with stock and processes - we're both learning how to make things work most efficiently. There's also still the possibility of a further vacancy for a few hours each week to help the business develop if you're local to York. As I mentioned above, I have all sorts of plans!
Arrivals
This week has seen re-stocks of most track items and the arrival of the DCC sound fitted GE ES44 locos from KatoUSA. There's just one of each of livery available - order quickly if you want one.
I'll be running some trains this weekend with the Yorkshire Area Group. I hope you find some time in the next few days to enjoy yours.
Best wishes.
Ian
PS I'll be away for a few days during the Summer half term week, but you can continue to place orders and I'll despatch when I get back.
I'm sending this just to Train Trax customers who might be interested in Japanese trains. If I've got that wrong, then apologies, delete it and ignore. (alternatively - have a look anyway - it might just start a new interest!)
New announcements from KATO Japan
Last Friday KATO Japan announced over 30 N gauge items, some new and some keenly anticipated re-releases. All available to pre-order now from Train Trax.
In addition, to celebrate the end of 'Golden Week' (Spring holiday season in Japan) there's 10% off all Japanese trains in stock. Just use coupon code 'Golden10'. This is valid until the end of May on all items except pre-orders, no minimum spend. This helps me create room for new stock coming soon!
I'd like to commend the N Gauge Society's upcoming show to you. It's due to be held at the National Railway Museum, York on Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th May 2023. If you haven't heard about it can find out more on the NGS website. I'll be there as a volunteer steward.
Now there won't be a Train Trax stand at this show due to space constraints, but it is local to me in York. so to coincide with the weekend event, I'm planning informal open days at TrainTrax HQ which is just on the other side of the city centre. Think of it as a complimentary 'fringe' event to extend the fun. The idea would be to offer refreshments, cake etc on Friday afternoon and Monday morning for anyone making a long weekend of the event. There would of course be some trains running and time to chat about all things Unitrack. No purchases necessary!
Did I mention there would be cake?
Let me know if you're interested in coming by grabbing some free Eventbrite virtual tickets. Come at any time in the morning or afternoon, this just lets me plan the cake quantities.
This newsletter is a little later in the Month than I'd planned, as we had a busy (but very enjoyable) time at the York Show over the Easter weekend and needed some time to catch up with things. If you've subscribed recently then welcome, it's great to have you with us.
Demand for Untrack has never been higher so stock on some items is currently a little low. Please bear with us whilst we wait for new deliveries to clear customs etc.
The newest announcements from KATO Japan are now ready to pre-order, for delivery later this year. You can browse them all on the pre-order page.
Why pre-order? KATO models are generally produced in batches, so once a model has been produced it may not be available again for several years (if at all). Only a limited quantity of each KATO release makes it to the UK. During last year there have been instances where locomotive releases have completely sold out before arrival. A pre-order guarantees that the item is yours, but there is no need for you to make payment until the items are in the UK
The list includes new style Unitram packs, the all new EF55, more Taki 1000 wagons and a couple of interesting others.
As ever, if you can't see what you're looking for then please do get in touch.
I've also included direct links to pre-orders below.
Secondly, I'd like to commend the N Gauge Society's upcoming show to you. It's due to be held at the National Railway Museum, York on Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th May 2023. If you haven't heard about it can find out more on the NGS website. I'll be there as a volunteer steward.
Now there won't be a Train Trax stand at this show due to space constraints, but it is local to me in York. so to coincide with the weekend event, I'm planning informal open days at TrainTrax HQ which is just on the other side of the city centre. Think of it as a complimentary 'fringe' event to extend the fun. The idea would be to offer refreshments, cake etc on Friday afternoon and Monday morning for anyone making a long weekend of the event. There would of course be some trains running and time to chat about all things Unitrack. No purchases necessary!
Did I mention there would be cake?
Let me know if you're interested in coming by grabbing some free Eventbrite virtual tickets. Come at any time in the morning or afternoon, this just lets me plan the cake quantities.
I've enjoyed talking to customers at the York Easter Show and over the phone recently. Do get in touch if you have any queries or comments. I also love to see pictures of your Kato Creations - feel free to send in your layout photos and I may include some here in my next email.
Best wishes.
Ian
Despite the drizzle, there's now tulips flowering in my garden so I think I can use the title 'spring' for this newsletter. It's been a long month.
A few things to say, with a bit of a North American theme this time.
Showtime:
I've started preparing for the York Model Railway Show, which is happening in just over a week over Saturday, Sunday and Monday of the Easter weekend. The Train Trax stand will be a bit bigger than I did at Leeds or Doncaster, so what would you like me to bring? If you've already started writing a shopping list then do let me know and I'll try and bring everything you want. If there's something that you'd just like to have a look at 'in the flesh' without any obligation to buy it, then again just drop me a note here or email to sales@traintrax.co.uk
York is a great show to visit - always a good variety of subjects modelled and always to an inspiring standard. In total circa 120 stands expected at the show. Catering isn't bad either once you've found it somewhere upstairs!
New KatoUSA UP FEF
One of the most recognizable and famous UP Steam Locomotives, the FEF (Four-Eight-Four) is returning for 'Fall' 2023 from Kato USA! Featuring a number of revolutionary design innovations, including a coreless motor with dual flywheels for silky-smooth side-rod operation at any speed. Inside bearing wheels (where appropriate), and a special articulated undercarriage features on the unique, 14-wheel Tender to allow the locomotive to navigate 11” (282mm) curves.
FEF-3 Steam Locomotive Union Pacific 844 (DCC-Fitted)
The Water Tenders are Kato's most recent design and will be sold as a two-pack for modellers to supplement their FEF-3 or other UP steam locomotives, such as the 4-8-8-4 Big Boy. Just like the prototype models, the two tenders are not identical, having (in addition to an externally mounted American Flag plate) different weld mark details which will be replicated on the models of the two cars, ensuring that their unique spirit is preserved when translated into model form. An optional DCC-friendly headlight PCB will be available to allow the tender’s lights to be illuminated as well!
Union Pacific Water Tender Set (2) - IN STOCK NOW but more to come in autumn.
The third component of this Union Pacific re-release will be the 7-car UP Excursion Train. This set features the latest tooling for the Power Car (a modified/rebuilt Baggage Dormitory car prototypically used for providing head end power to the trailing cars) and a UP Business car "Kenefick." These will form the form the head and tail of the excursion consist, which will also include notable cars like the vibrantly decorated Promontory Museum car, with its full-body American Flag wrap, and a pair of Dome cars.
Following feedback from Facebook followers, over the last week I've arranged a few tweaks to www.traintrax.co.uk
You can now find the ranges of KatoUSA DC, DCC and DCC Sound locomotives each in their own category. Once you've clicked the category you'll be able to narrow the list of locos down by using the filters on the right have side of the screen (or the little search icon if on mobile). Do have a browse and see if you can discover something extra to add to your collection. To encourage you all to give it a test there's 5% off locos in these categories (excluding pre-orders) with the coupon 'loco5' until Easter.
I expect I've got something wrong with the categorisation, as I'm no expert in North American stuff. If you can spot something that doesn't look right then let me know and I'll send a 10% coupon code just for you.
There's quite a few things I want to update you all on this month.
I got a great response to my 10% track offer on Tuesday morning, so I thought I'd experiment and send this update email in the morning too. If you want more frequent offers, then head to the Facebook page. You may be wondering why do Facebook followers get more offers than email subscribers? I know that not everyone gets on with it, but generally I find Facebook a more immediate and conservational media, so it's really useful for me to gauge interest in different things and ask questions of customers. The reward for this is more discounts and the very latest updates on arrivals and announcements.
Now I've settled into new premises, it has become more feasible to accept visitors to Train Trax HQ. If you're local to York and want to save on postage or see something in particular before purchase, just get in touch to make an appointment. Don't expect a 'proper shop' (facilities are basic), but it's great to meet customers in person sometimes.
It seems like it's been a busy couple of weeks for re-stocks and new arrivals. The latest trains from Japan arrived on Tuesday - very limited stocks so be quick!
See below for other recent arrivals - notable are the wagon sets to go with the great value Industrial start sets.
Announcement posters from Kato Japan were issued earlier in the month and many of these items are now available to pre-order:
Check the pre-orders page to look at the details, or do a search on the website if you're struggling to find things. It's always a juggling act deciding which of the KATO announcements to order in. Some of the Japanese items are very much of niche interest with limited sales potential so I don't include them. That said I probably get it wrong sometimes, so any Kato item not listed can be obtained to 'special' order, subject to availability, just let me know.
One more reminder that I'm listing a large collection of second hand KATO Japanese models on the Model Railway Magic ebay store. I'm keeping them separate from TrainTrax so no-one gets confused between the normal new stock and this second-hand stuff, but I also figured many readers would be interested. I'll be adding a few auctions per day for the next few weeks - I'd say I'm about half way through the collection now.
Last week, news from the UK distributer of KATO was that there would be changes to Recommended Retail Price across the many items in the range. Some items have gone up by quite a bit, but some have dropped. I've now updated most prices on the website to account for this, and also included a note including the normal price just above the price on all items. You'll see that the TrainTrax price is always below RRP.
I always look forward to getting responses and orders from these emails, but bear with me as I probably won't reply until sometime on Monday.
Do enjoy your weekend.
Ian
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