The hobby industry was hit hard after the financial crisis of 2008. A decade later, many established RC companies are gone, and the existing companies struggle to survive. The industry is over saturated with knock off brands, and an entitled customer base expecting deep discounts.
RC News UnLtd obtained information from the head representative of the RC Manufacturers Union about a recent meeting with IFMAR, where the manufacturers voiced their concerns. Hopes were high after a strong case was made for keeping the IFMAR Worlds where the market is, to save costs for the manufacturers.
This is why the announcement of the 2020 IFMAR 1:8 Buggy World Championships being hosted in Cia Norte Brazil came as a surprise. We reached out to both parties for comment, you can read them below.
"Brazil is a perfect host for the 2020 Worlds. As a World Championship we need to travel the whole world. Also, it just so happens that Cia Norte has a really good holiday and spa scene. The worlds are only 10 days long, and everyone can enjoy an all expenses paid vacation."
-IFMAR
"We are obviously really disappointed in IFMAR for once again taking us to the middle of nowhere with expensive travel expenses for all manufacturers. However, we understand that it is a great holiday destination, with a great track and hosting club. We are not surprised." - RC Manufacturer's Union
RC News UnLtd will continue to follow this story as it develops.