All about the community of model railroading and rail enthusiasm
January 6, 2016
Atlas Model Railroad Co. announced today an agreement to purchase BLMA Models Inc., of Fullerton, CA, including the company’s current tooling and inventory. Terms of the purchase were not disclosed.
Upon completion of the acquisition, Atlas will continue BLMA’s production plans announced prior to the sale and fulfill orders that BLMA had received. Atlas said it will release many popular BLMA items with all-new numbers and paint schemes. Also, the company will develop and release items already scheduled internally by BLMA.
Established in 2000, BLMA manufactures HO, N, and Z scale rolling stock and accessories.
Founder and president Craig Martyn will work as a consultant for Atlas to ensure a smooth transition, assist on development and help with marketing.
“What started as a hobby business 16 years ago has turned into something larger than I ever expected,” Martyn said in a statement. “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.”
BLMA stopped selling product direct to consumers today in preparation for shipping its inventory to Atlas. During the transition, BLMA will process open orders for pre-ordered rolling stock that Atlas will fulfill. Products include BLMA’s N-scale GSC 60’ Flat Car (Run #2), ACF 52’ Gondola (Run #3) and Trinity 31K Crude Oil Tank Cars, and the HO and N Trinity 5660 Covered Hoppers, Trinity 64’ Tropicana Modern Reefers and Bx-166 60’ BNSF Box Car.
Atlas Chief Executive Officer Paul Graf said BLMA’s acquisition is a good fit.
“BLMA’s reputation for detail and prototypical accuracy is compatible with Atlas’,” he said. “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.”
For 60 years, family-owned Atlas has been among the top model railroad manufacturers in the business. The company manufactures track, locomotives, rolling stock, and structures in N, HO, O and O-27 scales.
Graf said Atlas will soon announce the first product from BLMA’s existing line to be released.
Martyn said he will devote more time to www.MyMetalBusinessCard.com, which he launched in 2011, but stay involved in model railroading.
“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,” he said. “Thank you for your unwavering support over the years, and cheers to our kindred connection today and always.”
