Annual Production of 1/72 (22mm) scale plastic soldiers, 1958-2025
3 days ago
- #hobby-history
- #3D-printing
- #model-kits
- The hobby is experiencing a 'Golden Age' with a record number of manufacturers and new sets.
- Airfix was the sole major producer in the 1960s, releasing 3-4 sets annually.
- Atlantic and Matchbox entered the market in the 1970s, leading to a production peak.
- Esci sustained production in the 1980s after Airfix and Matchbox slowed down.
- Revell, Accurate, IMEX, Italeri, and HaT revitalized the market in the 1990s.
- Production surged in the late 1990s, with HaT becoming a dominant player.
- The 2000s saw new entrants like Emhar, Zvezda, Orion, Strelets, and MiniArt.
- 2006 marked a peak with over 100 new sets, but sales dropped due to economic slowdown.
- Despite economic challenges, production remained high, with over 140 sets in 2009.
- 2010-2013 saw steady output, with HaT, Strelets, Caesar, and Zvezda leading.
- 2014 was the quietest year in a decade, with fewer new releases.
- 2015-2021 saw stable production (50-60 sets/year), dominated by Ukrainian manufacturers.
- The Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022 severely impacted production.
- Future growth may rely on niche subjects and smaller producers.
- 3D printing could revolutionize the hobby by enabling digital distribution of designs.