I agree, Randy made comments about retail sales for Newt would not work. Why not ? speaking for myself I want at least two.
Given the interest here, other sites, complaints on twitter. 3000 Newts would sell strictly @neca website in a days time. The issue of human figures not selling as well is always brought up. The only Aliens figures I see available at normal price are Bishops, and Windrix the Hicks and Hudson series 1's have gone nuttz on secondary market. I did luck out when Gamestop reduced those to 5 bucks, after calling every gamestop in 100 miles and going on two road trips ( they would not ship from stores).
Why not alter Ripley figure with leather jacket add Newt in 2 pack, with or with out accessories (pulse rifle, helmet would nice).
Look at the prices people are wanting for a Newt,TMNT after they pick em up @ SDCC. That should tell someone of the demand for those, and how much money even if Neca sells at wholesale to distributors they ( neca ) are leaving on the table.
Offer a true preorder, let whom every wants a Newt pay for @ Necaclub (limited to 2, no price gougers). Then produce figure accordingly. Problem solved, or am I being to naive?