Atlas Model Railroad Co. Agrees to Purchase BLMA Models Inc. HILLSIDE, New Jersey: Effective immediately, Atlas Model Railroad Co., has agreed to purchase BLMA Models Inc., of Fullerton, California. Founded in 2000, BLMA manufactures quality HO, N, and Z scale rolling stock and accessories. Upon completion of the acquisition, Atlas will own and release all current tooling, inventory, and will continue with production plans outlined by BLMA, prior to the sale. Craig Martyn, Founder and President of BLMA Models, stated: “What started as a hobby business 16 years ago has turned into something larger than I ever expected. The experiences, knowledge, and most importantly, the friendships gained through developing BLMA have been life changing, and I will be forever grateful to the many that supported my endeavors. This acquisition marks a bold new chapter for Atlas, and the evolution of my professional career as well. The purchase of BLMA ensures that enthusiasts will see more product releases than ever before, a continued legacy of attention to detail, and the future production of highly sought after models. I will now be able to dedicate my energy and invest more of my time into www.MyMetalBusinessCard.com, which has seen rapid growth since I launched the company in 2011. To my industry connections and hobby enthusiasts, this is not a goodbye – I look forward to seeing you on the other side of the aisle, once again enjoying the great hobby of model railroading. Thank you for your unwavering support over the years, and cheers to our kindred connection today and always.” For 60 years, Atlas has been a leader in the world of model railroading. Atlas has its roots in model railroad track and accessory making through invention, innovation, and ingenuity. Atlas has a proud reputation as a family-owned business and is well known for quality and excellence. Between Atlas and Atlas O, they manufacture track, locomotives, rolling stock, and structures in N, HO, O and O-27 scales. No matter your scale, you'll find the products you need and that "You're on the Right Track®...With Atlas". Paul Graf, Chief Executive Officer of Atlas Model Railroad Co, stated: “BLMA’s reputation for detail and prototypical accuracy is compatible with Atlas’. The HO and N rolling stock will fit seamlessly into the Atlas Master line of product. The details and accessories are a perfect complement Atlas’ existing product line. We have known Craig since he first entered the market, and have had a good relationship with him and BLMA through the years. We are happy that Craig will be able to work with Atlas over the coming years as we incorporate the BLMA products into Atlas’ line, as well as bring some of BLMA’s planned new products to fruition. We plan to make the announcement of the first product from BLMA’s existing products as soon as the purchase is completed.” On January 6th, 2016, BLMA will stop selling product direct, in preparation of shipping the inventory to Atlas. During the transition, BLMA will process open orders for pre-ordered rolling stock, though Atlas will physically fulfill the orders. These models include: - N scale GSC 60’ Flat Car (Run #2) - N scale ACF 52’ Gondola (Run #3) - N scale Trinity 31K Crude Oil Tank Cars - HO & N Trinity 5660 Covered Hoppers - HO & N Trinity 64’ Modern Reefers – Tropicana - HO & N Bx-166 60’ Box Car – BNSF In the coming years, Craig will work as a consultant to Atlas, ensuring a smooth transition, assistance on development and help with marketing. Atlas expects to release many popular BLMA items with all-new numbers, paint schemes, and more. Furthermore, Atlas will develop and release items already scheduled internally by BLMA. For further information, please visit www.atlasrr.com or www.BLMAmodels.com
I think we can be sure that there will no longer be Z offerings from BLMA/Atlas, which is quite a shame. I hope I'm wrong. They're detail pieces are one-of-a-kind.
There is no plan to discontinue the Z scale parts. In fact, you might be surprised at some of the developments coming down the road.
Since I also model in HO, I'm a big fan of Atlas. I look forward to seeing them expand into Z. As I am relatively new to Z, I don't have a big selection of BLMA details, but am pleased with what I do have. I think Atlas made a good decision in acquiring them, it will compliment their line.
Hoo rah! How about miniaturizing those exquisite Atlas O scale traincars to Z! And put a .010 ID needle applicator in the Conducta Lube package for use with Z loco maintenance.
Time will tell but I haven't been happy with the offerings from track to train equipment put out by Atlas. Pardon me for being the frowner, doubter and forgive me or not for throwing a wet blanket on things. I'm not very optimistic about BLMA switching hands to Atlas. Nonetheless, the best to all and I can only hope this turns out to be a good thing.
Looking forward to more Z scale products. Scenery details for starters, but maybe folks at Atlas will venture into rolling stock as well?
