Wm K. Walthers Inc., the Milwaukee, Wisconsin-based hobby manufacturer and distributor, has announced it will not publish its annual reference book in 2026, marking a shift for the nearly century-old company.
In a statement to customers, Walthers acknowledged the importance the printed reference book has held for hobbyists over the years. “For many years, the Walthers Reference Book has been an important part of the hobby, and we know it has been especially valued by customers who enjoy having a trusted printed resource at hand,” the company said in an electronic newsletter sent to customers.
The decision comes as the company approaches its 94th anniversary in Spring of 2026. Walthers noted that throughout its history, it has adapted its offerings to meet changing times, and the reference book itself has evolved over the years.
For modelers who relied on the printed catalog, the company emphasized that the same information remains available on walthers.com, where content is updated frequently and accessible at any time. While the company acknowledged that some customers who prefer a printed reference may find the news disappointing, they said the shift will have little impact on many users who already utilize digital resources.
Importantly, Walthers stressed that the publication pause does not signal a reduced commitment to the hobby. The company reaffirmed its dedication to producing and supplying high-quality products, along with accurate information and services for modelers of all experience levels.
Walthers also left the door open for a potential return of the printed reference, noting they are not ruling out a future printed edition but asking for customer understanding as the company continues to evolve.
Will there be an electronic copy of the reference book on the Walthers site that you can access and page through like an electronic magazine? Best of both worlds. You can browse this video book anytime but Walthers doesn’t need to publish and distribute thousands of hard copies.
The flyer is currently like this so hopefully.
Walthers is simply “evolving” to increase profits. Can’t blame them, I’ve seen the effects of the tariffs and it’s a tough market in the first place.
Times are changing. While, the catalog is a good source for information on orders most modelers go online to get their information. This is the first time in the years that they discontinued the catalog but it might be back later.
Agreed, it will be interesting to see if the catalog makes a return in the coming years.