Atlas posted today on their Facebook an update to the Micro-Trains acquisition. It appears the molds will eventually be transferred to Vietnam:
Atlas/Micro-Trains Sale Explanation
We know the past week has brought a lot of emotion for the Micro-Trains team and for many long-time hobbyists who care deeply about the brand.
A little context may be helpful.
Micro-Trains had been exploring a sale for several years as the owners prepared for retirement. Employee decisions made in recent weeks were handled by Micro-Trains itself, before the Atlas acquisition took effect. Those changes were not directed, initiated, or influenced by Atlas. Atlas’ only role was expressing interest in interviewing Micro-Trains employees for potential job opportunities.
Our role now is clear: preserve the Micro-Trains product line, protect its legacy, and build a strong future for the brand. We have already begun meeting with former Micro-Trains employees and hope to bring talented people onto the new “Micro-Trains by Atlas” team.
On a question we’ve seen come up often:
None of the U.S.-based tooling is being moved to China.
Micro-Trains had some limited production in China in recent years using the same factories Atlas uses today, but all U.S.-based tooling remains stateside at the moment. As part of the long-term production plan, molds will currently be transferred to trusted suppliers in Vietnam, where quality, cost stability, and production capacity are strongest. After careful review, this is the best path to ensure Micro-Trains continues into 2026 and well beyond. Without this step, the brand’s future would have been uncertain at best.
At the same time, all drawings, computer files, research, archival materials, and selected equipment are being relocated to Atlas in Hillside, New Jersey, where research and development, engineering, logistics and overall product management will continue. We are also evaluating which aspects of production and assembly may continue in the United States as we balance quality, cost, and long-term sustainability.
Our goal is simple: ensure Micro-Trains not only survives, but thrives for the next generation of modelers.”
Happy Thanksgiving to All,
Atlas Model Railroad Co. Inc