Station Shop - retailing of railway items
article by: John Clarke
The two existing shops are in the stations at Toddington at the
north end of the line and at Cheltenham Racecourse in the south.
They have two purposes ; firstly to offer visitors of all ages an
opportunity to buy souvenirs and gifts , and railway related items
of interest ; and secondly to make significant profit to support
the ongoing maintenance and development of the railway. The profit
made each year is significant. The ranges on offer in these shops
are carefully chosen and priced to attract all age groups , and in
particular railway enthusiasts.
Toddington Shop is the larger shop which allows us to display a
magnificent selection of new and out of print secondhand books
covering the GWR and LMS regions . New publications relevant to our
area are always offered . The titles available cover every aspect
of railway operations - locomotives, sheds, stations , carriages
etc. Although most titles are concerned with steam , diesel
enthusiasts will also find plenty of books to entertain. The latest
issues of periodicals are always in stock . There are big ranges of
Bachmann and Dapol rolling stock for OO Gauge Modellers -
always with the latest releases.
Cheltenham Racecourse shop was opened in 2011 when the line was
interrupted by the landslip between Winchcombe and Toddington.This
smaller shop is on the platform where all passengers alight and is
predominantly aimed at our younger visitors. Toys for every pocket
are on offer together with the full range of Thomas diecast models
and accessories.
The volunteers who work in these platform shops are very close
to the trains pulling in right there and disgorging their
passengers many of whom come straight in. Meeting customers in this
way is a great joy . The working day roster is 9 to 5 and
volunteers are required to offer and commit four weeks ahead to
attend on the appointed day. Sales are conducted on modern
tills and credit card machines. The reward is great fun, dealing
with the customers mostly in holiday mood, particularly if
they buy an ice cream!. If you would like to join the team please
speak to any of the shop volunteers or use the website contact
facility .
This year the webshop shown on our website is increasing its
ranges on offer. New volunteers are also required to do help
develop this important modern way of doing business. It is
completely different. The job content is order assembly, secure
packing, and taking the parcels to the Post Office. Eventually this
will be required to happen five days a week all through the
year.Please tell us if you might be interested.