Sheffield based model railway retailer Rails of Sheffield hosted a grand opening of its newly refurbished retail store and announced a new out-of-town warehouse on 15 April.
On 15 April, Rails opened its doors after almost two years to unveil its all-new emporium and showroom. Members of the public were greeted with goodie bags and representatives from the industry were on hand to answer questions and show off the latest products.
Above: The outside of the retail shop has also had a new colour scheme.
On hand were Bachmann, Cavalex models, Rapido, KR Models, DCCconcpts and Richard Watson from Hornby Magazine.
The new shop is divided into two main areas, the model store which displays models available to purchase in gauges ranging from ‘N’ to 3.5in gauge. In the store, customers can also see a wide range of second-hand items along with examples of Rails of Sheffield's exclusive models and samples of its all-new weathering service. The second area has captured the feel of an Apple retail space, with no traditional counter so the staff are on hand to assist with queries.
Above: The store has the feel of an Apple retail space.
Rails also have one of the first DCCconcepts showrooms, displaying the entire range from the Settle-based manufacturer. The staff at Rails have been trained to offer technical advice on the products. Sales and Training manager Richard Brighton from DCCconcepts said: “The ability to be able to interact with the product, talk to the staff and make an advised purchase is what’s unique about this retail space.”
Above: Rails of Sheffield now stock the full range of DCCconcepts products.
The final part of this trio of new spaces is the new out-of-town office and warehouse space. While nothing will change for the Chesterfield Road store, Rails says the new facility will allow it to streamline its business and offer a better service.
Above: The emporium is the model railway shop equivalent to a sweet shop.
Visit www.railsofsheffield.com for more information
