Heartbreak as family-run hobby shop announces shock closure – after 56 years | World | News
After more than half a century, Model Empire, a family-run hobby shop, is closing its doors, leaving generations of customers nostalgic and heartbroken. The store, which opened in 1970 and has become a popular destination for model trains, airplanes and especially automobiles, will close in the first quarter of 2026.
Model Empire, owned by Alex Geiger, who took over from his mother in 1983, has been the cornerstone of the hobby industry in the US state of Wisconsin for 56 years. “This is what we’ve been doing all these years, so it’s going to be a big change,” Mr. Geiger said. For Alex, the store was more than a workplace; it was a second home for both him and his loyal customers.
The reason for the closure is not financial difficulties. In fact, the store has seen strong sales, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Instead, Alex and his wife, his high school sweetheart Roberta Geiger, say the decision stemmed from a desire to step back, spend more time with his family and grandchildren and enjoy a slower pace of life.
The couple thanked their customers in a statement on Facebook. They said: “Our success as a business would not be possible without all our customers. As we move into semi-retirement, the time has come when we want to step back and spend some more time with our family and grandchildren. The hobby industry has changed so much over the last decade and we believe this was the best decision for us.”
The store will hold liquidation sales for its extensive inventory, including items stored in multiple warehouses, before shifting to online-only sales.
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Alex joked that the process of selling the stock would be gradual: “I wish I could tell you it means something, because I don’t think we’re going to be that aggressive in selling.”
Customers shared their grief in an online post: “I always knew this unfortunate day would come. I started shopping there in 1986… and when I was a little farther away I’d stop by and spend $100-$150 for old times’ sake!” Another added: “I’ve been going there since I was little, loved getting your catalog in the mail.
“But I understand and I wish you success in semi-retirement!”
For the Geigers, the closing marks the end of an era, but they will continue to be involved in the hobby through online sales and demonstrations.
The store will remain open for only one more month, giving enthusiasts one last chance to visit the walls of kits, rare collectibles and model cars that have defined the West Allis community for decades.
