Why does an ordinary hobbyist go to a wargaming show? I don't know so maybe we should carry out a survey! I can only speak for myself.
In days of yore I would drag myself off to a show for the following reasons:
(a) to view the latest 15mm figures and buy 'shortfall items'
I can still do this but the numbers of traders, and the breadth of stock, is slowly diminishing.
(b) to 'mung around' the 'Bring & Buy' in the hope of a bargain or two.
Sometimes I get lucky but my first resource is Ebay these days.
(c) to meet up with old friends and acquaintences
This still happens but people don't, generally, travel as far anymore.
(d) to purchase 'ancilliary items' e.g. paints, tools, bases, etc
(e) to pick up some rules and books
These traders are shrinking in number. They also carry a much more limited stock than before.
Cost-Benefit analysis - let's take a few examples: (Mileage calculated from Hemsworth)
(i) Newark (Hammerhead et al) - 160 miles (round trip); public transport impractical
(ii) York (Vapnartak) - 72 miles; public transport does not link up; winter driving (usually with snow on the ground)
(iii) Fiasco (Leeds Armouries) - 40 miles; quite a way from the train station; very difficult parking with rip-off prices.
(iv) Recon (Pudsey) - 52 miles; good train links - no need to drive; limited goods; winter show
(v) Chilcon (Sheffield) - 70 miles; public transport impractical; very limited parking; another winter show
(vi) Phalanx (Lee Green) - 151 miles; 3 train changes; a weary journey by car
I used to attend all of these but now only go to York (when well enough). There is now no longer any need to wait for the next event when buying goods on-line is so easy and means quicker deliveries. So is the 'general purpose' wargaming show going to follow the dinosaur?
IMHO there will be a great winnowing with many smaller shows disappearing. Maybe more specialisation is the way forward! The 'Joys of 6' (emphasis on 6mm) is one such event.
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