So Very Disappointed............

[Cardenio]

Sorry to post this as my first post, but I have to say that I am very disappointed with the direction the McFarlane has gone with there SportsPicks. I know this is a well discussed topic, but.....................

Before you flame me. A little background.

I have been around McFarlane Toys since the NFL series 1 and up to the last 2 NFL series I have every reg and the majority of chases. Snowy Brady, Clean E Smith, etc, etc.
I was one of those completists who needed to have them all - I know that some of you know what I mean. Baseball, Football, NBA, Hockey. Whatever. I had to have it.

So why have I not been involved with the boards? I have to a certain degree. And for a long time. Before Ben, before the rating systems, before the little green light, before most of you. Remember when the post counts got deleted? The Deion fiasco?

My wife has been a board member. But she has not posted for a couple of years
I have met Mark, Rachel, Todd, Todd's Dad on more than one occasion. Heck,I even got a pic of Mark with my daughter.

I feel bad posting this, and Mark if I told you who my wife was, you would know who I was.

But I hate some of the choices that to company has made, and fear that if the quality continues to slide (as we all know that it has in the last 2 years), there will be an end. I am to the point where I only collect my fav teams (which is very hard for a completist like me).

New packaging, poor paint jobs, boring chases. Come on guys. You can do better.

I am not very important in the big picture of big business. I know that. But I am your typical collector. 30 something male with some disposable income. I know that there are plenty of us types out there. I just would love to see a return to quality that I so much enjoyed in the past. So that I can get exited about finding a SP on the pegs. You know guys - you remember the feeling. Driiving from TRU to Walmart to Target and back agian just hoping to find that chase

I want that feeling back and I do not want to stop collecting. But it is getting harder to buy McFarlanes. Please think about some of the choices you all make in the future and remember us collecters.

Feel free to flame me, comment or ignore. I just had to post this.

Sorry,
Cardenio

[Spawnomite]

Hello and welcome to the Spawn Boards. ;)

Who were you before?

[CGSPAWN]

Should we merge these into one thread?

In all seriousness, tons of fans are feeling the way you do. I think a lot of people, me included, are frustrated with the quality of these figures.

[Cardenio]

I know that there have been a great number of threads out there, but I just had to get this off my chest.

I hate the fact that I just do not enjoy collecting these as much as I used to. It HAS TO get better

Nobody that you knew Spawnomite. My wife was the board member

[TheFigureFanatic]

Hello and welcome to the Spawn Boards. ;)

Who were you before?
LOL!

[Spawnomite]

I know that there have been a great number of threads out there, but I just had to get this off my chest.

I hate the fact that I just do not enjoy collecting these as much as I used to. It HAS TO get better

Nobody that you knew Spawnomite. My wife was the board memberSo what was your former board name?

[mfan]

Hey it's Drew!!!

[chasefinder]

ditto

[Cardenio]

So what was your former board name?

I did not have a former board name. This is no great conspiracy. Just a long time collector who is venting frustration. I am just like a lot you. A die hard collector. I do not like to complain and be negative, but just had to vent.
If that is not understandable - OK. NO sweat.
And I understand that a lot of you feel the same. And I understand the this has been discussed. And I understand that TMP is aware of this dis-taste.
What I do not understand is how, who or why TMP continue to make these choices that just undermind their product?

[HollandX]

http://i35.tinypic.com/27y5pxg.jpg

[johnious]

you let mark have a photo with your daughter? you're a very daring man, aren't you? ;):D

welcome to the boards. i think your argument was well stated. now just don't take any of the noob-jabbing too seriously :D

[CGSPAWN]

What I do not understand is how, who or why TMP continue to make these choices that just undermind their product?

$$$

At least as far as packaging goes.

[Cardenio]

you let mark have a photo with your daughter? you're a very daring man, aren't you? ;):D

welcome to the boards. i think your argument was well stated. now just don't take any of the noob-jabbing too seriously :D


She was 3 at the time. It is a very cute pic.

noob-jabbing - it is very much expected.

Just wait until I mention that I am a Yankees fan. Or a Cowboys fan. So I still have plenty to collect, but when I go to TRU and see a Warren Moon and Lambert hanging on the pegs only because the 6 inch rip in the card has been taped. It makes me sad

[Cardenio]

$$$

At least as far as packaging goes.


Ah yes. For the love of it is the root of all evil.

For a MOMC collector who hangs SPs on the wall the packaging does not work so well

[mark fauser]

Objectively speaking. I love this company Mcfarlane! I love the care and artistry they put into making figures. I love perhaps more then anything how active they have been with their fans on these boards over the year and have valued their input.

Again, just my opinion ... I don't have a problem with packaging because I rip it open - I'm not as upset about player selections as most people ... but I really think these boards and the moderator have not been as active as DREW (the First) or Mark (the second) Or even Todd for that matter. Todd would chat wiht people on-line and would appear here periodcially and pscyh everyone up!!!

The plastic, the gas, the cost of everything is going up ... I imagine there are huge obstacles that are far beyond our comprehension ... Have compassion for that.

The only other thing that dissapoints me (and I think I'm a minority here) is the lack of legends line per year. So many to make - and new ones being developed every year. When I heard about Gene Upshaw dying today the first thing I thought of is what a GREAT figure he would be in the pits against Alan Page! WOW!!!!

[chasefinder]

another Zzzz thread

[pensfan71]

I haven't gone on a SP hunt in a while,but I was out at the mall today and stopped by Kay-B and saw the NFL Legends. The Lambert was a joke with those glossy plastic pants!
It was like looking at a giant SLU. If the Co. keeps this trend up,this line will go right down the crapper. TMP should be ashamed for putting this stuff out and charging the same amount or more.

Paint the damn figures Todd!

[Hurricane]

Has anybody ever got an answer to this question:

If plastic is so expensive as to cause all these cutbacks, why are the figures getting bigger and bigger?

[Cardenio]

Objectively speaking. I love this company Mcfarlane! I love the care and artistry they put into making figures. I love perhaps more then anything how active they have been with their fans on these boards over the year and have valued their input.


mark. I agree. I have enjoyed everything about McFarlane over the years. Even the Deion fiasco did not annoy me that much.
And Lord knows that I have spent enough over the years. We have over 500 SPs in the house. So I am no hater.
There is art in what they do. And I have enjoyed it as much as the rest of you here. But the choices that have been made are not good.

Yes, McFarlane is very active with their fans, and has valued their opinion. Here's hoping that they are still listening.

[AndyMatz]

Just a quick note about the packaging. I also have spoke up about the incredibly boring packaging, but I do very much like fully assembled figures, and I can understand why TRU and their customers dont find "severed limb" figures acceptable. You'd think a MOC collect would be happy about that,but then again, rarely do people speak up when positive things happen. With TMP's and especially Todds artistic talents and backaground, I to am quite suprised that they are going with the very boring packaging currently being used. For many years I've read time and time again about chase figures being cherry picked... now with the tweaked figures, I've found Moon/Blue sleeves, no ball Ichiro (neither of which appeal to me), but at least TMP tried.. they failed but they listened to the complaints and tried... I also LOVE the retro figures, so I do like what the currrent plans are, putting a "retro" figure in a future regular series. I may have to wait, but I'm ok with that compared to paying over $25 on ebay (when you add in shipping)... so TMP has at least addressed two issues...

[Elias_Devil]

Just a quick note about the packaging. I also have spoke up about the incredibly boring packaging, but I do very much like fully assembled figures, and I can understand why TRU and their customers dont find "severed limb" figures acceptable. You'd think a MOC collect would be happy about that,but then again, rarely do people speak up when positive things happen. With TMP's and especially Todds artistic talents and backaground, I to am quite suprised that they are going with the very boring packaging currently being used. For many years I've read time and time again about chase figures being cherry picked... now with the tweaked figures, I've found Moon/Blue sleeves, no ball Ichiro (neither of which appeal to me), but at least TMP tried.. they failed but they listened to the complaints and tried... I also LOVE the retro figures, so I do like what the currrent plans are, putting a "retro" figure in a future regular series. I may have to wait, but I'm ok with that compared to paying over $25 on ebay (when you add in shipping)... so TMP has at least addressed two issues...

I agree with everything you say. It's just that the negative people voice their issues over and over again to drown us out.

[oldboy26]

I'm am so ******* sick of all you whiny cry babies. GET A LIFE. It's a sports figure for $10-15. This ain't no Sideshow $200 statue. Mcfarlane is a Mass Market dealer, not a collector's only club. If they made 1,000 or less of each figure then i could see them wanting to up the quality to sideshow levels but of course the price would reach $50+ for a figure. Would you want that? No, you wouldn't. They wouldn't either. In all honesty none of you deserve a company like TMP that actually tries to support and listen to it's consumers to the best of it's abilities within reason.

[trojansc]

Objectively speaking. I love this company Mcfarlane! I love the care and artistry they put into making figures. I love perhaps more then anything how active they have been with their fans on these boards over the year and have valued their input.

Again, just my opinion ... I don't have a problem with packaging because I rip it open - I'm not as upset about player selections as most people ... but I really think these boards and the moderator have not been as active as DREW (the First) or Mark (the second) Or even Todd for that matter. Todd would chat wiht people on-line and would appear here periodcially and pscyh everyone up!!!

The plastic, the gas, the cost of everything is going up ... I imagine there are huge obstacles that are far beyond our comprehension ... Have compassion for that.

The only other thing that dissapoints me (and I think I'm a minority here) is the lack of legends line per year. So many to make - and new ones being developed every year. When I heard about Gene Upshaw dying today the first thing I thought of is what a GREAT figure he would be in the pits against Alan Page! WOW!!!!

Hey Mark, any screenplays in the works right now? :D

[trojansc]

I know that there have been a great number of threads out there, but I just had to get this off my chest.

I hate the fact that I just do not enjoy collecting these as much as I used to. It HAS TO get better

Nobody that you knew Spawnomite. My wife was the board member

Welcome back. What was your wife's board name? :)

[YQT]

In all honesty none of you deserve a company like TMP that actually tries to support and listen to it's consumers to the best of it's abilities within reason.


Uhm, please let me know who you are that you can say what we do or don't deserve?

I'll be waiting for an intelligent answer.

[rdjohnso]

Arrrr.... thats one big bark there...... its not that we dont have a life.... its the fact that TMP has done better in the past and has let things slide. If they had never attained a level that we had an appreciation for..... we wouldnt be complaining.... its the fact
that they have let their quality slide, not in just one aspect, but in multiples.....


I'm am so sick of all you whiny cry babies. GET A LIFE. It's a sports figure for $10-15. This ain't no Sideshow $200 statue. Mcfarlane is a Mass Market dealer, not a collector's only club. If they made 1,000 or less of each figure then i could see them wanting to up the quality to sideshow levels but of course the price would reach $50+ for a figure. Would you want that? No, you wouldn't. They wouldn't either. In all honesty none of you deserve a company like TMP that actually tries to support and listen to it's consumers to the best of it's abilities within reason.

[memoman9]

I'm am so ******* sick of all you whiny cry babies. GET A LIFE. It's a sports figure for $10-15. This ain't no Sideshow $200 statue. Mcfarlane is a Mass Market dealer, not a collector's only club. If they made 1,000 or less of each figure then i could see them wanting to up the quality to sideshow levels but of course the price would reach $50+ for a figure. Would you want that? No, you wouldn't. They wouldn't either. In all honesty none of you deserve a company like TMP that actually tries to support and listen to it's consumers to the best of it's abilities within reason.

Firstly, unless you've formerly posted under a different name or have been lurking for the last couple of years you shouldn't be criticizing someone's dislike of this product, especially if you're as new as your time shown. If you haven't been around and don't know how this line has continued to disappoint, there are too many issues to address in less than four or five pages of replies. If you have been here, then you're well aware of how this line has continued to slide.

TMP doesn't listen one iota about what the boardies say/suggest/ask for. There have been constant complaints about almost everything about this line for what, a couple of years now? Not only have the issues not been looked at, more crop up to add to the bad taste in most collectors' mouths. QC has gone down the drain, poor packaging, crappy case selection, dealers ordering fewer and fewer cases than before, retailers cutting back, etc, etc, etc. There have been hundreds of very plausible and sensical suggestions from us 'unwashed masses'. What have we seen? The line continuing to slide downwards faster than the passengers on the decks of the Titanic as it began to sink.

Pricepoint considered or not, this line gets closer to a SLU end every day.

[Scoobaroomba]

Dude, you are missing the point of what some people are saying. We have all been used to the awesome figs series 1 and beyond, now the packages and figure qulatiy has changed. It is a BIG change and it upsets the collector. as i understand this. Dont knock us for loving the product, because that is what i believe we are trying to say and vent about.

[KEG44]

[quote=mark fauser;8959814]but I really think these boards and the moderator have not been as active as DREW (the First) or Mark (the second) Or even Todd for that matter. Todd would chat wiht people on-line and would appear here periodcially and pscyh everyone up!!! quote]


I hear ya Mark. I remember when the 1st shots of the NFL series (the gray unpainted 2 ups)went up on the boards... I remember thinking to myself... W t F... I'm chatting with some dude named Todd McFarlane about making football figs at 2 am in the morning:o

Drew was great and is still missed. The line is still fairly strong but TOO MANY Changes TOO FAST can make people a little shell-shocked.

I was just thining how cool it would be if Todd offered up an old school Q & A circa 2001:cool:

[Felty]

I agree with alot what you said. This years NFL legends was the first NFL SP Line I did not buy. The package did not bother me the quality of the product did. I know cost and such are rising. I wouldn't mind paying a couple of dollars more per figure for a higher quality product. Everything is going up in price so why not? Especially if the paint jobs continue to be like they were in NFL Legends. And as for long term board members. I been buying Spawn since series one and still do. I can remember when the message board was just one long scrolling board.... I can remember when spawn.com was actually a registered fishing site of some sort if I remember correctly.. No sportpicks..... I can remember Todd posting as Secret Squirrel. Moderator Steve The Victim , Chet etc.... The good ole days.. I know Todd doesn't owe me anything for being with his toys since series one of Spawn. But I just feel that he should want his company to put out the best available product. If the next NFL Series paint jobs are good I will be back. If not I am sticking to my first loves Spawn and Star Wars.

[iggypimpin]

what was your wifes board name?

[Lilpuppy99]

what was your wifes board name?


Man you guys sure are awfully concerned about who his wife is.

[THERAGE]

I was telling a friend of mine at work how I collect these great little "statues" called Sports Picks. I showed him a few pictures here on the website of the NFL figures and he asked where he could buy some so I told him TRU. The next day I asked who he bought and he told me they look nothing like the pictures here on the website and they arent worth the $12.

[craigjames]

I agree. I wish Todd would read this and care but I highly doubt anyone is ever going to see anything on this forum :(

But I am like the first guy. I can now only collect my favorite team because the new packaging sucks. There aren't really any chases, so I'm not buying those anymore either. I don't care if somebodys jersey has "C" on it and another version doesn't. Big deal.

If TMP produces the upcoming iginla and phaneuf as poorly as they made this past kovalev, i am officially never buying another SP again. EVER!

[chasefinder]

zactly!

Has anybody ever got an answer to this question:

If plastic is so expensive as to cause all these cutbacks, why are the figures getting bigger and bigger?

[Third]

Dude, you are missing the point of what some people are saying. We have all been used to the awesome figs series 1 and beyond, now the packages and figure qulatiy has changed. It is a BIG change and it upsets the collector. as i understand this. Dont knock us for loving the product, because that is what i believe we are trying to say and vent about.

The problem is that reasons, and perfectly understandable ones to me, have been given for each and every thing someone has had a complaint about but that just doesn't seem to be good enough. You keep seeing the same complaints over and over again. The arguement that these are $10-15 toys holds water regardless of what anyone wants to think about it. The quality received considering the price point has been exceptional since day one and when people ***** so much about it, it comes off as people taking the product for granted.

[ogrjmj]

The problem is that reasons, and perfectly understandable ones to me, have been given for each and every thing someone has had a complaint about but that just doesn't seem to be good enough. You keep seeing the same complaints over and over again. The arguement that these are $10-15 toys holds water regardless of what anyone wants to think about it. The quality received considering the price point has been exceptional since day one and when people ***** so much about it, it comes off as people taking the product for granted.

products are supposed to improve over time,which sp's had been doing, now they are decreasing in quality,thats the main concern.it's hard to accept when your used to a certain standard that tmp set for itself.

[Cardenio]

Dude, you are missing the point of what some people are saying. We have all been used to the awesome figs series 1 and beyond, now the packages and figure qulatiy has changed. It is a BIG change and it upsets the collector. as i understand this. Dont knock us for loving the product, because that is what i believe we are trying to say and vent about.

That is exactly the point.

I love what TMP has done in the past. As a matter of fact I was at one time thinking about writing a book about my SP collecting. Titled "Going Broke 10 Bucks At A Time"

I love the idea of what TMP is still trying to do, but they seemingly falling a bit short. I understand that is must be hard to keep up a quality product at a resonable price.

So I guess for the time being we must all be happy with what a "$10-15 dollar figure" is.
And apparently, some collectors are happier than others

[almostimpos]

If there wasn't any cost cutting in terms of packaging or paint applications and the price to retailers went up what would customers have to pay per figure at the lowest cost retailer? I can see paying $12.99 and up every now and then but not from every retailer. While I know it is tough for hardcore collectors to accept the cardboard packaging when they like to displayer their figures or not having some of the figures painted as before. I think it was good decision to keep the costs down at least at this point in time. If they were to raise the price and get a big dropoff in sales what could they do then? Atleast now they can experiment in finding a happy medium of doing things.

[Cardenio]

If there wasn't any cost cutting in terms of packaging or paint applications and the price to retailers went up what would customers have to pay per figure at the lowest cost retailer? I can see paying $12.99 and up every now and then but not from every retailer. While I know it is tough for hardcore collectors to accept the cardboard packaging when they like to displayer their figures or not having some of the figures painted as before. I think it was good decision to keep the costs down at least at this point in time. If they were to raise the price and get a big dropoff in sales what could they do then? Atleast now they can experiment in finding a happy medium of doing things.


So what you are saying is to be happy with what you get. It is better than nothing.

I am OK with that thinking. It is just a little hard to do.

Hey, at least I still have a boat load of Yankees and Cowboys to collect;)

[almostimpos]

So what you are saying is to be happy with what you get. It is better than nothing.

I am OK with that thinking. It is just a little hard to do.

Hey, at least I still have a boat load of Yankees and Cowboys to collect;)

Be honest tell me if you could see this scenerio on this board.

They keep the old clamshell and with the same paint apps and finally raise the cost to retailers (and with rising cost they may have to raise the cost to retailers more than once)

Ok now lets say the lowest price retailer has to move their price over time from $10 to lets say $12 because you know in retail they like ending in a 99.

Now I am saying that it is the same clamshell and same paint apps.

Boardmembers

"Come on I used to buy these things for $10 and now you want me to pay $12 for the same figures? I pay two dollars more per figure and they aren't better? I only have a limited amount of money to spend on these figures. They aren't necessities. How can you expect me to pay $12 for a figure. I am going to have to drastically cut down what I am buying now.

I know that there are some hardcore collectors that aren't as restricted in buying as other collectors but good sales are needed to make things work. I think it is better to keep the cost down especially with regard to packaging than to just raise the price not ever really knowing if you can keep costs in line. That isn't me saying that you should just be happy with what you get. I'm just saying that I think it is better as a company to try to keep costs down than to risk raising the price not knowing what the future landscape is.

[cfedodge360]

I have probally close to if not over 1000 SP's even tho i have only been collecting a short time. I was givin one as a gift and I immediately fell in love with the detail and the look of the figure. The next day I ran out and bought all the remaining pieces to the series and then proceeded to find and purchase as many from older series and new as i could find from all sprots lines. As i became more and more invloved i decided to go all out on my true favorite which is football and so starting with the one figure i recived from NFL series 11 I now have alomost every football Sp ever made. (purchase and trading other figures out) When I went out to purchase the new Legends I wasn't upset with the figures/or packaging but I also did not have the same feeling i had i was when i recived my first one. The only reason i decided to buy them is I talked myself into it the completest in me took over. I thought to myself I worked too hard to stop now and not keep the set complete now. I hope things get back to the figures I fell in love with so I can be happy with my spending again.

[Cardenio]

Inflation almostimpos. It is a fact of life.
If the quality (including the clamshell) was the same as 2 years ago, I would be happy to pay 12ish bucks a figure.
Prices went up (at TRU to 10.99), quality went down. That is even a tougher pill to swallow

[almostimpos]

Inflation almostimpos. It is a fact of life.
If the quality (including the clamshell) was the same as 2 years ago, I would be happy to pay 12ish bucks a figure.
Prices went up (at TRU to 10.99), quality went down. That is even a tougher pill to swallow

They've already proved that for those people that smoke that the more the price is raised on cigarettes there is a point where customers cut back. Sports figures aren't a necessity. Maybe they are to hardcore collectors. Did Toys R Us raise their price because they had to pay more for the figures?

[ogrjmj]

Inflation almostimpos. It is a fact of life.
If the quality (including the clamshell) was the same as 2 years ago, I would be happy to pay 12ish bucks a figure.
Prices went up (at TRU to 10.99), quality went down. That is even a tougher pill to swallow

exactly.im paying twice as much for gas as last year. i spend $400 a month on food now,last year about $350,i mean is $2 more a figure really hard for people to swallow? i know, it's all toys r us' fault.:rolleyes:

[UFCFan]

exactly.im paying twice as much for gas as last year. i spend $400 a month on food now,last year about $350,i mean is $2 more a figure really hard for people to swallow? i know, it's all toys r us' fault.:rolleyes:

You'd like to think that it wouldn't be that big of a deal, but to TMP, it is. Look at it this way: Even with the status quo as it was a while back, before the packaging change, do you think sales were going up, staying the same, or slowly going down? I would say at best they were close to the same, but realistically going down a bit.

With that said, what do you think would happen with a price increase? They would lose more sales. Yes, they will lose some sales from the packaging change and paint issues anyway, but I would bet money that that amount is quite a bit less than the amount they would regress if prices were increased across the board in this current economic climate. You paying more for gas and food isn't even a realistic comparison. Those are things you have to buy. Not everyone can eat that theoretical twice as much for gas and 50 extra bucks a month on food without having to drastically cut back their spending everywhere else.

I'd much rather have the old clamshells and better paint apps back too, but I can see why TMP is doing what they're doing. I know you hate it, ogrjmj, but if you can't realistically see why they are, I just have to again say that you're only looking at it through your narrow scope of vision and failing to see the bigger picture.

[Cardenio]

Nah. I don't buy that arguement UFC.

If you can afford 10 bucks a figure - you can afford 12.

So you would rather pay 10 bucks for something adequate instead of 12 for something nicer? That is the problem. You keep on buying a product that is declining, and that product will continue to decline. The only way to turn that decline around is to make your voice heard. That is what this forum is for. To be heard.

I just would like to see a return to what we all have grown to love over the years.

[almostimpos]

Cardenio I take it you probably bought a lot of figures from kbtoys stores for $12.99. For some odd reason they seem to move quicker at other places that have them cheaper. I thought maybe it had something to do with the price.

[UFCFan]

Nah. I don't buy that arguement UFC.

If you can afford 10 bucks a figure - you can afford 12.

So you would rather pay 10 bucks for something adequate instead of 12 for something nicer? That is the problem. You keep on buying a product that is declining, and that product will continue to decline. The only way to turn that decline around is to make your voice heard. That is what this forum is for. To be heard.

I just would like to see a return to what we all have grown to love over the years.

Please show me where exactly in my post I, in any way, mentioned what I personally would or wouldn't do. It's not there. I was merely stating that I could understand why TMP is doing what they are doing. I even made it a point to put a qualifier at the end stating that my personal stance was that I do not like the new packaging or the molded coloring on the figures, but I guess you chose to just gloss right the hell over that.

Can I afford an extra 2 dollars per figure? You bet. Am I the average consumer? You bet not. You, ogrjmj, and a handful of others want to continue to act like you are the normal type of buyer for these, and you continue to be wrong and overestimate your significance to the success, or lack there of, of the product. Of course you, ogrjmj, me, and a lot of others here would be willing to pay an additional 2 dollars per figure. That isn't the point, though. The point is, would someone who isn't so into the hobby and product who buys a figure or three now and then be as willing or able to continue to impulsively do so?

Also, it wasn't really even an argument from my end-just a simple statement. For me, it is real easy. Yes, I would prefer the old clamshell packaging and I would very much prefer all figures be painted. In the end, though, you have two choices. Buy it or don't buy it. If you choose to not purchase any in some little "revolt" effort (which, let's be real here, won't make a damn bit of difference), then that is your "option" (;)). I am not going to do the same, simply because, while I would prefer the "old" way, it just isn't THAT big of a deal to me. I have already drastically cut back my purchasing on them anyway, well before these recent issues started popping up.

I'm not going to pass up figures of players that I really like just so I can hold out some misguided, naive hope that my refusal to purchase will result in TMP changing back to the "good old days style" of production and packaging. If you want to do that, by all means, go to town.

[ogrjmj]

You'd like to think that it wouldn't be that big of a deal, but to TMP, it is. Look at it this way: Even with the status quo as it was a while back, before the packaging change, do you think sales were going up, staying the same, or slowly going down? I would say at best they were close to the same, but realistically going down a bit.

With that said, what do you think would happen with a price increase? They would lose more sales. Yes, they will lose some sales from the packaging change and paint issues anyway, but I would bet money that that amount is quite a bit less than the amount they would regress if prices were increased across the board in this current economic climate. You paying more for gas and food isn't even a realistic comparison. Those are things you have to buy. Not everyone can eat that theoretical twice as much for gas and 50 extra bucks a month on food without having to drastically cut back their spending everywhere else.

I'd much rather have the old clamshells and better paint apps back too, but I can see why TMP is doing what they're doing. I know you hate it, ogrjmj, but if you can't realistically see why they are, I just have to again say that you're only looking at it through your narrow scope of vision and failing to see the bigger picture.

once again i disagree. i think i am looking at the big picture.tmp is trying to cater to tru and not the customers.is there ever any business that thrives by ignoring thier best and most loyal customers? i don't think so.i do understand why they are doing what they are but i think they are taking the wrong approach,i guess we will see who is right over the next year.if this method works,i guess we will see tmp expand into more stores and produce more product,i bet not.

[almostimpos]

once again i disagree. i think i am looking at the big picture.tmp is trying to cater to tru and not the customers.is there ever any business that thrives by ignoring thier best and most loyal customers? i don't think so.i do understand why they are doing what they are but i think they are taking the wrong approach,i guess we will see who is right over the next year.if this method works,i guess we will see tmp expand into more stores and produce more product,i bet not.

Their best customers want more deserving players such as those players playing for small market teams but there just doesn't seem to be enough of these customers that actually buy these more deserving players nationally. I think it also true with these figures as you raise the price. Yes hardcore collectors will pay more but there just aren't enough hardcore collectors that will buy enough of these figures at a higher price IMO.

[UFCFan]

once again i disagree. i think i am looking at the big picture.tmp is trying to cater to tru and not the customers.is there ever any business that thrives by ignoring thier best and most loyal customers? i don't think so.i do understand why they are doing what they are but i think they are taking the wrong approach,i guess we will see who is right over the next year.if this method works,i guess we will see tmp expand into more stores and produce more product,i bet not.

You disagree about what specifically? That they would lose more sales with a price increase versus the amount they might potentially lose with the new packaging and paint, or lack there of? You can say "we'll see", but unless they raise prices, which they aren't doing any time soon, you'll never have a way of knowing anyway. Actually, even if they did do that, you still wouldn't know since they don't disclose sales numbers.

Which, again, just illustrates the fact that you are really only seeing it from your perspective. You hate the packaging, so you think most people hate it. Even when you think most, you're only going off of the average poster here, and you seem to always believe that the type of people here really represent the majority of overall SP customers. You are ok paying another 2 bucks a figure, so therefore, it must be perfectly logical and make good business sense, and everyone must be ok with a 2 dollar price hike too.

Even as misguided as I think you are sometimes in the way you really see things, I don't think even you believe that sales were actually getting any better with the old clamshell and better paint quality. They sure weren't getting any big new retail accounts, were they? I'm not even championing the new changes or saying they will allow for them to be in more stores or anything, either. I'm simply saying I don't think they will result in anywhere near the amount of loss in sales you seem to think they will. Agree with me, disagree with me, whatever. At the end of the day, it doesn't make a **** all of difference. TMP is doing what they're doing right now, and that's that. Do you or I have to like it? No, but it pretty much is what it is, isn't it? It would be great if they were in more stores because of any change or move they made, but right now it doesn't appear to even be about that. It seems to all be about maintaining what precious little they already have, and that is what you seemingly fail to grasp.

Tell me what happens if TRU decides to stop selling the figures. Do you really, truly feel that raising prices is in TMP's best interest in keeping their product alive long term? Do you believe they can survive (or thrive) for long if selling only through hobby outlets and online retail? If you believe that, ask yourself what that reality would then do to the quality of the figures themselves-and no, I am not talking about doing limited edition resin figures at a significantly higher price point.

[Cardenio]

Cardenio I take it you probably bought a lot of figures from kbtoys stores for $12.99. For some odd reason they seem to move quicker at other places that have them cheaper. I thought maybe it had something to do with the price.


Nope mostly TRU or just bought a case.

[ogrjmj]

You disagree about what specifically? That they would lose more sales with a price increase versus the amount they might potentially lose with the new packaging and paint, or lack there of? You can say "we'll see", but unless they raise prices, which they aren't doing any time soon, you'll never have a way of knowing anyway. Actually, even if they did do that, you still wouldn't know since they don't disclose sales numbers.

Which, again, just illustrates the fact that you are really only seeing it from your perspective. You hate the packaging, so you think most people hate it. Even when you think most, you're only going off of the average poster here, and you seem to always believe that the type of people here really represent the majority of overall SP customers. You are ok paying another 2 bucks a figure, so therefore, it must be perfectly logical and make good business sense, and everyone must be ok with a 2 dollar price hike too.

Even as misguided as I think you are sometimes in the way you really see things, I don't think even you believe that sales were actually getting any better with the old clamshell and better paint quality. They sure weren't getting any big new retail accounts, were they? I'm not even championing the new changes or saying they will allow for them to be in more stores or anything, either. I'm simply saying I don't think they will result in anywhere near the amount of loss in sales you seem to think they will. Agree with me, disagree with me, whatever. At the end of the day, it doesn't make a **** all of difference. TMP is doing what they're doing right now, and that's that. Do you or I have to like it? No, but it pretty much is what it is, isn't it?

i totally agree with all your points,but i still say decreasing quality isn't the answer.too many changes so quickly is never good for any business.i know they have to try to adapt,i just don't think it's going to increase sales,just the opposite,i think sales will decrease even more drastically. maybe i'm wrong,like i said we will see. and i think none of really like it..lol

[almostimpos]

How is the Legends Jack Lambert figure selling nationally? Even though a lot of long time collectors don't like how it looks and may pass on it most customers probably still feel that this figure is still a good value for their money. Just because some hardcore collectors may pass it up doesn't mean it isn't going to sell well.

[trevisw513]

I agree w/ the below comment, WE as collectors an purchasers of the TMP products do DESERVE a thread on WHO THE HELL the "SportsPicks" line has gone down the toliet!!! No i don't want to hear about $, because WERE the ones spending it... Are they going to keep this trend going or make changes for the GOOD of all collectors...

I agree. I wish Todd would read this and care but I highly doubt anyone is ever going to see anything on this forum :(

But I am like the first guy. I can now only collect my favorite team because the new packaging sucks. There aren't really any chases, so I'm not buying those anymore either. I don't care if somebodys jersey has "C" on it and another version doesn't. Big deal.

If TMP produces the upcoming iginla and phaneuf as poorly as they made this past kovalev, i am officially never buying another SP again. EVER!

[UFCFan]

i totally agree with all your points,but i still say decreasing quality isn't the answer.too many changes so quickly is never good for any business.i know they have to try to adapt,i just don't think it's going to increase sales,just the opposite,i think sales will decrease even more drastically. maybe i'm wrong,like i said we will see. and i think none of really like it..lol

Just answer this. You really believe that everyone would be ok with a price increase and that 2 dollars more to ensure better packaging and paint jobs is no big deal for most people. My question is, if sales were already dipping when the paint quality and apps were more or less top notch, and the packaging was to your satisfaction, what on Earth would make you believe that MORE people would be buying them at a 2 dollar price increase with the same quality as they were then.

There's no getting it twisted here- you are grossly overestimating the level to which the average customer cares about the packaging and paint. Not the average person here, but the average purchaser of the figures overall.

[Cardenio]

Please show me where exactly in my post I, in any way, mentioned what I personally would or wouldn't do. It's not there. I was merely stating that I could understand why TMP is doing what they are doing. I even made it a point to put a qualifier at the end stating that my personal stance was that I do not like the new packaging or the molded coloring on the figures, but I guess you chose to just gloss right the hell over that..

This is not a personal attack at you or anyone else. So do not try to make it. I was merely stating that you are willing to continue to buy the figures that you yourself say you are not as pleased with.


Can I afford an extra 2 dollars per figure? You bet. Am I the average consumer? You bet not. You, ogrjmj, and a handful of others want to continue to act like you are the normal type of buyer for these, and you continue to be wrong and overestimate your significance to the success, or lack there of, of the product. Of course you, ogrjmj, me, and a lot of others here would be willing to pay an additional 2 dollars per figure. That isn't the point, though. The point is, would someone who isn't so into the hobby and product who buys a figure or three now and then be as willing or able to continue to impulsively do so?.

I, in no way am overestimating my significance here. But do not forget - we (I said we) are the customer. And the customer is always right
Do not forget that

Also, it wasn't really even an argument from my end-just a simple statement. For me, it is real easy. Yes, I would prefer the old clamshell packaging and I would very much prefer all figures be painted. In the end, though, you have two choices. Buy it or don't buy it. If you choose to not purchase any in some little "revolt" effort (which, let's be real here, won't make a damn bit of difference), then that is your "option" (;)). I am not going to do the same, simply because, while I would prefer the "old" way, it just isn't THAT big of a deal to me. I have already drastically cut back my purchasing on them anyway, well before these recent issues started popping up. .

This is no revolt on my part. Just a collector expressing his opinion. Just like you. We just do not agree. So be it.

I'm not going to pass up figures of players that I really like just so I can hold out some misguided, naive hope that my refusal to purchase will result in TMP changing back to the "good old days style" of production and packaging. If you want to do that, by all means, go to town.


I am not sure what it is that I am going to do yet. I,like you, have cut back.
And tell me again why it is that I can not hope for a return to the quality of product that TMP was once able to produce and mass market?

[Cardenio]

Just answer this. You really believe that everyone would be ok with a price increase and that 2 dollars more to ensure better packaging and paint jobs is no big deal for most people. My question is, if sales were already dipping when the paint quality and apps were more or less top notch, and the packaging was to your satisfaction, what on Earth would make you believe that MORE people would be buying them at a 2 dollar price increase with the same quality as they were then.

There's no getting it twisted here- you are grossly overestimating the level to which the average customer cares about the packaging and paint. Not the average person here, but the average purchaser of the figures overall.

If the sales were already dipping when the quality was better, how does less quality at the same price even make any economical sense?
Sounds like the beginning of the end to me. And that is very sad. Very sad indeed.

Who is the ave person? Who is TMPs target demographic? That, I would like to know.

[UFCFan]

"The customer is always right" does not exist. It was always a complete load of crap, and it is that much more so now. You have two options: Purchase the item, or don't. I'm not saying you can't voice your displeasure. Lord knows we all do it. I do it all the time. I am just saying that you and you alone are not going to make a difference. TMP knew they were going to face a big backlash from their hardcore collectors, yet they still went ahead with the changes- what does that tell you?

You can hope for a return to the quality that used to be a constant all you want, and I wasn't trying to imply that you couldn't. You posed a question in my direction and I answered it. As I have said almost ad nauseum, I am not thrilled with the packaging or the molded coloring, but I am not going to refuse to buy each and every figure because of it. I will still buy the figures of players that I really like, or of poses I like a lot. If it is a big enough deal to you for you to just stop buying altogether, that is your perogative, and as I said, go for it. That wasn't in any way meant as a slam towards you.

[Cardenio]

OK UFC. No disrepect on my end at all.
But the customer is always right does exist. No load of crap. And it is even stronger now than ever before.
If you do not believe me - try to sell a house. Try to sell anything. The customer gets whatever the customer wants. TMP has to tailor to the customer, or they will in the end lose more than they will gain.

[UFCFan]

If the sales were already dipping when the quality was better, how does less quality at the same price even make any economical sense?
Sounds like the beginning of the end to me. And that is very sad. Very sad indeed.

It makes economical sense to TMP. The whole reason they are even cutting costs is because of the dramatic increase in their production costs. They didn't set out to make a lesser quality figure. They set out to cut costs where they felt they could and try to stay in the game. The quality of the figures has suffered, but the molded coloring is also a new thing. It looks pretty bad as is now, but it is still possible for them to get that part improved in subsequent releases. If it still looks like ass 8 months from now, I will be just as pissed as you are about it.

Who is the ave person? Who is TMPs target demographic? That, I would like to know.

Short answer: Not anyone on this board.

[UFCFan]

OK UFC. No disrepect on my end at all.
But the customer is always right does exist. No load of crap. And it is even stronger now than ever before.
If you do not believe me - try to sell a house. Try to sell anything. The customer gets whatever the customer wants. TMP has to tailor to the customer, or they will in the end lose more than they will gain.

It is a load of crap for the most part. It may exist to some extent, but not to the degree in which you probably think, and definitely not to the extent many others think. You're a customer. Go ahead and stop buying the figures altogether and see if it will matter. While you're at it, go ahead and tell me what you think the general state of customer service is like in this country right now. I mean no disrespect by that, either. It's just the truth when you're dealing with a big company that has many customers.

[Cardenio]

Short answer: Not anyone on this board.

Well stated

[Cardenio]

It is a load of crap for the most part. It may exist to some extent, but not to the degree in which you probably think, and definitely not to the extent many others think. You're a customer. Go ahead and stop buying the figures altogether and see if it will matter. While you're at it, go ahead and tell me what you think the general state of customer service is like in this country right now. I mean no disrespect by that, either. It's just the truth when you're dealing with a big company that has many customers.


You are right.
"Me" not buying will not make a difference. Not at all.
"Me" not buying would be becuase I just do not like what I see.
I bet that there are quite a few "me" out there

The general status of customer service in this country right now is crap. But that does not mean that you can not get what you want. You just have to work hard for it. In the end, a little hard work, usually pays off.

[ogrjmj]

Just answer this. You really believe that everyone would be ok with a price increase and that 2 dollars more to ensure better packaging and paint jobs is no big deal for most people. My question is, if sales were already dipping when the paint quality and apps were more or less top notch, and the packaging was to your satisfaction, what on Earth would make you believe that MORE people would be buying them at a 2 dollar price increase with the same quality as they were then.

There's no getting it twisted here- you are grossly overestimating the level to which the average customer cares about the packaging and paint. Not the average person here, but the average purchaser of the figures overall.

i don't think more people would buy it with a price increase, i think overall,if the quality was the same and there was a price increase, tmp would make more money overall.not saying sales would increase,but they would lose less sales then they are going to with all these changes,and having a price increase would raise thier overall profit margin.

[UFCFan]

i don't think more people would buy it with a price increase, i think overall,if the quality was the same and there was a price increase, tmp would make more money overall.not saying sales would increase,but they would lose less sales then they are going to with all these changes,and having a price increase would raise thier overall profit margin.

Fair enough. You're more than entitled to that opinion. However, consider their rising production cost, which is primarily what caused them to do what they're doing now. With them cutting costs where they can, they have already increased their profit margin without prices going up for either retailers or end consumers. If they just raised prices and did away with the new cheaper packaging and cheaper molded colored plastic, are you sure that their margin would be any greater at that point than it is now, without them having to raise prices at all? I'm not.

[Mats_44]

Look guys, it doesn't matter what the reasons are or the excuses are for the changes in quality.

It doesn't make much sense to suggest that we must be understanding of the changes and the reasons why they are being done and be realistic about it and accept it.

The bottom line is that you are only going to buy something if you think it's good quality. That is if you are a smart consumer........

[UFCFan]

Look guys, it doesn't matter what the reasons are or the excuses are for the changes in quality.

It doesn't make much sense to suggest that we must be understanding of the changes and the reasons why they are being done and be realistic about it and accept it.

The bottom line is that you are only going to buy something if you think it's good quality. That is if you are a smart consumer........

Nothing discussed on this board makes any more or less sense, then. It's all just a part of discussion, just like anything else here.

[Mats_44]

True enough. To me this isn't something to be debated. There is no right or wrong answer.

Either you are happy with the current state of the product or you are unhappy with it.

It doesn't make much sense to try and argue that those who are unhappy with the product are wrong for thinking so.

[ogrjmj]

Nothing discussed on this board makes any more or less sense, then. It's all just a part of discussion, just like anything else here.

very true. i'm bored and just appreciate a good debate sometimes :)

[UFCFan]

It's all good. I'm not telling anyone they are wrong for being unhappy. I am telling them that I think they are wrong if they really believe that TMP would be better off, from a business standpoint, raising prices right now. I personally would gladly pay quite a bit more for a better quality figure, but I am well aware that I am not the normal consumer, and that is what some other people here don't seem to get. There's not enough hardcore collectors out there that would pay much higher prices, imo, at least enough to support the product in the numbers that are currently produced.

I'd rather not lose paint quality or have cardboard, but ultimately, I want the figures to continue to be around for me to purchase when I decide to. I'd rather have figures with some colored molded plastic than have nothing at all, and that is pretty much my bottom line.

It's all just good discussion, though. We're all here because we like (or liked) the product.

[General Patton]

How is the Legends Jack Lambert figure selling nationally? Even though a lot of long time collectors don't like how it looks and may pass on it most customers probably still feel that this figure is still a good value for their money. Just because some hardcore collectors may pass it up doesn't mean it isn't going to sell well.

Here at the Glendale Store, the Jack Lambert figure is our #2 selling figure in the entire store for NFL product, right behind Joe Montana 2 which sold out in about 10 days.

[Mats_44]

Ya I understand where you are coming from and you make some valid points.

To me TMP is in a no win situation unfortunately, given that they want to be in bed with the mass retail stores like Wal Mart and Toys R Us.

In my opinion this product should be a specialty product and not something intended for mass production at mass retail.

The whole point of SportsPicks is supposed to be about detail and quality. Places like Wal Mart and Toys R Us do not care about that. They just want the products they sell to be as cheap as possible and as such it is putting a horrible strain on the quality that TMP was once able to offer.

[ogrjmj]

Ya I understand where you are coming from and you make some valid points.

To me TMP is in a no win situation unfortunately, given that they want to be in bed with the mass retail stores like Wal Mart and Toys R Us.

In my opinion this product should be a specialty product and not something intended for mass production at mass retail.

The whole point of SportsPicks is supposed to be about detail and quality. Places like Wal Mart and Toys R Us do not care about that. They just want the products they sell to be as cheap as possible and as such it is putting a horrible strain on the quality that TMP was once able to offer.

that about sums it up.

[UFCFan]

Ya I understand where you are coming from and you make some valid points.

To me TMP is in a no win situation unfortunately, given that they want to be in bed with the mass retail stores like Wal Mart and Toys R Us.

In my opinion this product should be a specialty product and not something intended for mass production at mass retail.

The whole point of SportsPicks is supposed to be about detail and quality. Places like Wal Mart and Toys R Us do not care about that. They just want the products they sell to be as cheap as possible and as such it is putting a horrible strain on the quality that TMP was once able to offer.

Very nice post. I agree on all points. My main concern if they went more specialty and less mass retail would be that the player selection would suffer even more than it has already. On one hand, with them being free from retailers pressuring and dictating certain things, you'd think it would enable them to take more chances on more "semi-star" and small market players. On the other, TMP would still have their little "merchandise sales by team" data sheets, and I can't help but think that with there being so fewer figures being produced, they would be even less likely to do players outside of the most popular teams. I also don't think that much of a smaller overall market would allow them to keep doing all the sports lines they currently do, considering licensing costs.

It's kind of a catch-22.

[almostimpos]

Licensing sports related items from the four major sports has to be costly. Companies have to sell enough product to cover their costs and licensing fees add to these costs. It isn't easy just to sell the sports figures at more sports related stores at a higher price because a good amount of collectors are used to paying a lower price. If there weren't enough collectors wouldn't be willing to pay a higher price they would be in big trouble. What would their next move be then? While hardcore collectors don't like the cost cutting aspects it is usually good business to keep costs in line. It had to be a tough decision to implement some of the cost cutting moves. The problem is a lot of collectors look at it from a collecting point of view not a business point of view.

[Cardenio]

Interesting discussion. Thanks guys
To sum up here
-We all love the product that TMP sells (or sold)
-Quality has slipped (for whatever reason)
-Something is better than nothing
-TMP is doing the best that they can
-Production and marketing are not cheap
-Those that post here are not the majority of SP buyers
-We are not TMPs target market

I am sure that all of these points are debatable. And some are more important than others. And some of us are more tolerate than others.

Time will tell what happens. I wonder if TMPs profit margin is higher or lower than it was a couple of years ago. Something that none of us will find out. All I can say is that the days of driving around to find SPs is over. For various reasons.

I will still pick up the Canton Exclusive and maybe some Yankees/Cowboys. And that is about it. Apparently I am more disappointed than others around here. That's OK. Life goes on

[UFCFan]

Licensing sports related items from the four major sports has to be costly. Companies have to sell enough product to cover their costs and licensing fees add to these costs. It isn't easy just to sell the sports figures at more sports related stores at a higher price because a good amount of collectors are used to paying a lower price. If there weren't enough collectors wouldn't be willing to pay a higher price they would be in big trouble. What would their next move be then? While hardcore collectors don't like the cost cutting aspects it is usually good business to keep costs in line. It had to be a tough decision to implement some of the cost cutting moves. The problem is a lot of collectors look at it from a collecting point of view not a business point of view.

Good point. I do feel that there is room for a higher end product right now, that they could put out to complement their standard line. I know they sort of see the 12 inch figures as such, but I think they should also start testing a higher end figure that is a bit closer to the gentle giant bust or danbury mint category than action figure. They already have the licenses in place, so that part would be covered. They could easily do autographed bases with these, and at worst, it would be a fairly good barometer of what the market might be for them if produced on a more consistent basis.

[Cardenio]

Good point. I do feel that there is room for a higher end product right now, that they could put out to complement their standard line. I know they sort of see the 12 inch figures as such, but I think they should also start testing a higher end figure that is a bit closer to the gentle giant bust or danbury mint category than action figure. They already have the licenses in place, so that part would be covered. They could easily do autographed bases with these, and at worst, it would be a fairly good barometer of what the market might be for them if produced on a more consistent basis.


High end market SP with an auto or something of that sorts would be great. The detail that TMP is capable of would make for a fantastic lookinghigher end figure .

Good point. The licensing is already in place. Who would be the competition? Upper Deck? Danberry mint? All three could survive.

Remember the buzz that UD created when the first launched the All Star Vinyl line? An autograph base would be a tall order, but I agree. It would sell.

[tiger tiger]

In Canada we pay $13-$15 for a figure. even when the dollar was par with the US.

I wonder if there is something inevitable even for the hardcore collectors: space.

I only collect NHL and am a completist and I have a significant section of my basement devoted to just storing the figures. Couldn't imagine guys collecting NFL, NBA and MLB too. As the number of series in each sport hit 30+ range, collectors will scale back what they collect or sell of what they have, keeping only what they really like.

So Wal-mart and TRU are the real "customers" who TMP will listen to, because they will contine to buy and stock products, even if the quality goes down.

[Mats_44]

The problem is a lot of collectors look at it from a collecting point of view not a business point of view.

LOL but that is what they are supposed to be!! They are supposed to be a collectible item geared towards sports crazed male adults!

[mfan]

Tim on a related topic, looks like another toughie for the Leafs this year. Darcy Tucker and Mats were the heart and soul of the team imo. I will enjoy seeing CUJO in Leafs sweater again...hope he has something left.

[Mats_44]

Tim on a related topic, looks like another toughie for the Leafs this year. Darcy Tucker and Mats were the heart and soul of the team imo. I will enjoy seeing CUJO in Leafs sweater again...hope he has something left.

Ya but it's time for change in Toronto.

Tucker and McCabe became a virus in that country club mentality dressing room where losing became acceptable and common.

It will suck if Mats doesn't come back, but he may still come back, I have a feeling that he is really torn on this and still loves the city of Toronto and it's fans and may not want to go elsewhere.

But having Mats back will not help, it will just keep the team in 10th place where they get a mediocre draft pick when they should really be hitting rock bottom and fighting for #1 draft pick overall and Tavares.

The Leafs need to do what the Penguins did for several years there, hit absolute rock bottom and get several high draft pick blue chip prospects.

It's time for a change in mentality in Toronto.

[mark fauser]

TrojanSC,

Nothing new has sold. I have only written one new screenplay in the last few years. Been busy with other things ... thanks for asking. Hopefully, I will get back in one day. :)

[JaylisJayP]

i completely support your post and frustration Cardenio.

And as much as Mark has always been gracious with his explanations and availability, I think his presence here has become mostly irrelevant, since regardless of what he's said in recent years (we're stocking these things in more stores than ever!) the product just continues it's downward spiral.

I used to collect, then pulled back, and this year I've stopped and they'll never get me back. Still, though, it's sad to see the hobby just tank the way it is.

[JaylisJayP]

-TMP is doing the best that they can



I respectfully disagree with this statement...going back years TMP has made mistake after mistake.

- After establishing a good thing the company started flooding the market with too much product, getting greedy, and hurting the interest (way too many pegwarmers) and collectibility along the way.

- Offered empty excuse after empty excuse after their product started getting pulled from different retailers (Gamestop, EB Games *when they were still separate* - all Wal-Marts around here, Albertsons, Target, etc...)

- All the latest slaps in the face with the horrendous packaging (I've now had the opportunity to examine these in-store and out of the 20 I saw on shelves at Toys R Us, ZERO would be considered mint by me or any other self-respecting collector). The "chase" situation is insult to injury.

- The company has never given the impression that it really knows what it's doing, and I wonder why now all of a sudden TMP is trying to "get in bed" with big retailers, if that indeed is that case....especially if they have to compromise what little they had left to be proud about regarding their sports products. With the constant inability to be prepared for exclusive purchases and just an overall ineptness at running a Web site (seriously, this is the worst Web site on the Internet as far as uninterrupted accessibility and speed of navigation), it's no surprise they continue to move in the wrong direction.

To me these are all examples of things TMP could've controlled or at least handled the right way and didn't, so I would never agree that TMP is doing the best it can.

I've loved Sportspicks since the NHLPA series back in 2000 or whenever it was, but all I do now is shake my head. If you're being honest about the state of things, how can you not?

I mean what are we left with these days, a single-pack 3" figure costs $6.99 at TRU for pete's sake.

[Cardenio]

i completely support your post and frustration Cardenio.

...... the product just continues it's downward spiral.

I used to collect, then pulled back, and this year I've stopped and they'll never get me back. Still, though, it's sad to see the hobby just tank the way it is.


Jay, this is my fear that there will be more and more collectors like you.

TMP has the market cornered here and they continue to make choices that devalue their product. I hope that there can be a turnaround, but I do not hold out a great deal of hope.

I recently passed up my first Yankees product. Maris/Mantle 2 pack. I thought glossy figures just did not look right and the packaging was abysmal.

[Cardenio]

I respectfully disagree with this statement...going back years TMP has made mistake after mistake..

As a said in the post....all points are debatable. I was summing up what others have stated in this thread.
I, for one, do not think that in any way that TMP is doing the best that they can.

[QUOTE=JaylisJayP;8970538]- All the latest slaps in the face with the horrendous packaging (I've now had the opportunity to examine these in-store and out of the 20 I saw on shelves at Toys R Us, ZERO would be considered mint by me or any other self-respecting collector). The "chase" situation is insult to injury.
QUOTE]

2 huge blunders - poor packaging and boring chases. Could not agree more

[almostimpos]

I respectfully disagree with this statement...going back years TMP has made mistake after mistake.

- After establishing a good thing the company started flooding the market with too much product, getting greedy, and hurting the interest (way too many pegwarmers) and collectibility along the way.

When was it that they established a good thing? Flooding the market with too much product by producing too much of a particular line or are you refering to too many different products such as 12inch and 3inch etc....? Do you see offering customers more product options being "greedy"? I kind of know what you are saying in a way but not really sure without better examples.

[mcelree25]

In an effort to keep this short, I'm not going to jump on the list of reasons why I think our once great hobby is on the decline. Instead, I am going to provide the best possible example of why our opinions do not matter to anybody at TMP.

About two years ago, I took the time to write out an extremely detailed, well thought out (albeit long,) take on my thoughts of the hobby, where the trends were going, and to summarize some suggestions different members of the board had given to ‘spark’ interest.

It was a very long read, but the thread garnered a fantastic response from the board (from anyone who had the stomach to read the entire post.) There were multiple pages of responses from various boardmembers…some positive AND some negative. The one constant among everyone who responded was that for good or for bad, everyone was taking the time to give their feedback because they genuinely cared about the future of the hobby! That cannot be overstated!

At one point, a few days after first making the post, even Mark Weber took the time to give a series of responses, but even after he said his piece, boardmembers continued to chime in with their thought.

Why am I bringing this up now? Simple. Not only were the issues brought up by the post ignored, after a month or so, TMP deleted the thread. For anybody who might say this was from the board cleanup, that simply is not true. The thread was intentionally deleted. I brought the thread up in a ‘Toddcast’ back when he remembered that was supposed to be a weekly thing, and although the link was posted in the ‘Toddcast,’ that post was ignored as well.

At the time I made the thread, I even went as far as to save a hard copy in fear that it might PO someone at the TMP offices. Needless to say, I was right, and it was deleted. For anyone who would like to turn back the clocks, here is a link to what was contained in my original thread:
(keep in mind this was 2006…so a few issues will be skewed compared to current events, and remember it is a very long read!)



>>>>> CLICK HERE: Page #1 (part #1) <<< (http://board.spawn.com/forums/showthread.php?p=3924493#post3924493)<<

>>>>> CLICK HERE: Page #2 (part #2) <<< (http://board.spawn.com/forums/showthread.php?p=3925109#post3925109)<<



The thread was 5+ pages of contributions from many people on many different issues. I was bashed by some, and many people agreed with me too. I just wanted to get someone’s attention to let them know we collectors were taking notice of changes being made. The thread was even before the all out ‘TMP Bash’ that started in the past 12-18 months.

We cannot expect all, or even a majority of our suggestions to be adopted, but you cannot deny that us boardmembers have come up with some very good, very business savvy ideas over time. All of this just goes to show however that TMP does not care what we think, and if given the opportunity they would sweep all of our negative feelings under the rug. It was easy back then to delete the thread because that was a time they were few and far between. Now however, there are significantly more threads like this, and the damage done to the hobby cannot be ignored.

I applaud those who still speak up in an attempt to let the company know they are not happy with their product, I have just come to the realization that what we say does not matter. My time as a collector is over, and I am afraid to say I am not alone. I can only say TMP has lost a lot of business and a lot of long time customers with decisions made in the last 24-36’ish months, and more are continuing to go on a seemingly weekly basis. If that isn’t enough to get someone’s attention to ‘turn back the clock’ to when things where better (better paint jobs, better packaging, better chases, better distributing, better player selection, etc,) then I am afraid nothing will.

[Mats_44]

Well then I guess this thread will be deleted too then! LOL

Way to go mcelree25!! :p

:D

[mcelree25]

Well then I guess this thread will be deleted too then! LOL

Way to go mcelree25!! :p

:D

lol
I hope not. There was a time not too long ago I spoke up about a lot of these topics (for me the hot button issues were reissuing figures and cardboard packages,) but I decided to let it go. I was a very passionate collector who cared a lot about the direction of the hobby, but could see the 'writing on the walls' as they were moving away from producing collectables and into producing toys (tell me one other collectable manufacturer that will go back and product out of print product.) I wanted to voice my opinion, but after realizing it didn't matter and feeling like no one was listing to the collectors as a whole, I decided to move on from the hobby.

I made the post I did above to show as good as it feels to come here and vent, in the end it doesn't really get us anywhere.

The shame of it is that everyone who is speaking up about these topics really does care about the future of the hobby. It just hurts to care about something but not be able to doing anything to help change things for the better.

[Mats_44]

Well you just let the cat out of the bag.

This is almost as big of a coverup as the aliens at Area 51.

:p

[Cardenio]

The shame of it is that everyone who is speaking up about these topics really does care about the future of the hobby. It just hurts to care about something but not be able to doing anything to help change things for the better.


You are right mcelree. I do love this hobby and have been with it since around 2000. I do not want to give it up, but I guess there comes a time in every mans life that he must make choices.
If the down turn continues, I will choose to collect something else. I just can not spend my money on what I know is not as nice as it should be. It is not what it once was.
All things evolve. All things change. I guess I am evolving and changing too. So be it

[eggwhite]

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