RE: Will Lanier still be around
I think some of this applies to all brands, not just Lanier.
Kits hat have been around forever just disappear when inventory runs out, and there's no way to know if any more will be made.
Some ARFs, even if they're good, seem to just have one or two production runs then they are gone.
I have started to think you need to buy when you see something you like, even if you have no plan to build (or assemble) it right now, because it may be discontinued at any time. Of course this has to fit within the budget, or at least not put the credit card over the limit.
I do not have a stockpile but I understand why a lot of people do.