Plastic Model Kits Market Size, Share | Global Forecast [2034]

PLASTIC MODEL KITS MARKET OVERVIEW

The global Plastic Model Kits Market size was valued approximately USD 2.82 billion in 2024 and will touch USD 4.95 billion by 2033, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.45% from 2024 to 2033.

A plastic model kit is a consumer-grade plastic scale model manufactured in kit form and assembled primarily by hobbyists, primarily for display. Plastic model kits depict a variety of subjects, from real-life military and civilian vehicles to characters and machines from original kit series and popular fiction (especially Eastern pop culture). Kits vary in difficulty, from snap-fit models that are assembled directly from the box to kits that require special tools, paints, and plastic glue.

COVID-19 IMPACT

Decline in Manufacturing and Supply Chain Disruptions

The widespread impact of the COVID-19 outbreak severely disrupted worldwide logistics, particularly affecting the manufacturing of plastic model kits. Manufacturing facilities encountered intermittent closures, experienced a decrease in labor force participation as a result of quarantine measures, and encountered hindrances in sourcing essential materials. The hiatus in production during these pivotal periods resulted in a scarcity of completed items, resulting in a constrained inventory for enthusiasts and sellers. This chain of disruptions triggered a domino effect within the industry, which persisted for an extended period, with certain producers grappling to meet the surge in demand following the easing of restrictions.

LATEST TREND

Embrace of Digital Technologies in Design and Production

Incorporating advanced digital tools into the realm of plastic model kit crafting is revolutionizing the sector. Techniques such as 3D printing and computer-assisted design (CAD) are now leveraged to develop models with enhanced intricacy and detail. Such advancements facilitate the creation of components with greater accuracy and the construction of more elaborate frameworks that were once challenging or unattainable. Consequently, aficionados are now able to purchase kits that offer a higher level of sophistication and complexity.

PLASTIC MODEL KITS MARKET SEGMENTATION

By Type

Based on Type, the global market can be categorized into Aircraft Models, Automotive Models, Military Models, Ship Models, Others.

Aircraft Models: Aircraft models are very common types of plastic model kits, for people who like planes and collectors too. These models might include military aircraft or commercial planes, giving a broad range of skill levels and details. The aircraft model market is very competitive, with interest based on historical accuracy and partnerships with aviation companies.

Automotive Models: Automotive models copy cars, trucks, and motorcycles, attracting a wide range of car fans. The demand for automotive model kits is linked to car culture, as collectors look for models of old, new, and luxury vehicles. The automotive kit market has expanded because of better detail in the kits, such as realistic paint jobs and stickers.

Military Models: Military models consist of tanks, soldiers, and military vehicles from different historical times. This group is one of the longest-standing and most favored in the plastic model kit market, thanks to military history fans and collectors. Military models usually have a high degree of accuracy and realism, appealing to hobbyists and schools too.

Ship Models: Ship models, which include types like naval ships, submarines, and other sea vehicles, are an important part of the plastic model kits market. Fans of ships, especially those who like historical and current military ships, help this segment to grow. The detail in ship models, such as complex rigging and hull shapes, makes them very popular.

Others: The Others category includes a variety of niche model kits such as figures, space models, and other specialized themes. These models cater to specific interests like science fiction, fantasy, or even models based on fictional universes. While smaller in market size compared to the other categories, this segment is growing as more hobbyists pursue unique and creative model-building experiences.

By Application

Based on application, the global market can be categorized into Hobby & Leisure, Education & Learning, Collectibles, Commercial Advertising, Military & Aerospace Training, Others.

Hobby & Leisure: The largest application area for plastic model kits is hobbies and leisure activities, where people of almost all ages enjoy assembling models, which is not only a fun activity but also provides relaxation and fun. As model making becomes a way to relax and get rid of daily stress, it is gaining popularity, which also drives the growth of the overall market.

Education & Learning: Plastic model kits are also widely used in teaching in schools and universities to help students learn knowledge such as engineering, design, history and art. Teaching models range from simple designs to complex models that require problem solving and critical thinking, which can not only stimulate students' creativity but also improve their hands-on ability. The popularity of this educational use has promoted the continuous development of this market segment.

Collectibles: Collecting plastic model kits, particularly limited edition or rare models, is a significant market segment. Collectors seek out high-quality models based on popular franchises or historical accuracy. The collectible market is driven by fan culture and the desire for exclusivity, with some models becoming valuable as rare or vintage items.

Commercial Advertising: Plastic models are often used in commercial advertising, either as promotional items or as part of an advertising campaign. In this application, companies use models to showcase their products, such as car manufacturers creating detailed models of their latest cars for marketing purposes. This segment is a smaller but growing application as businesses look for innovative ways to engage with customers.

Military & Aerospace Training: In the military and aerospace sectors, plastic model kits are used for training purposes. These models help in visualizing various technical components and are often used for flight simulations, military strategy training, or as part of museum displays. This segment is driven by the demand for realistic training materials that can be used in educational and professional settings.

Others: The Others category includes applications such as professional exhibitions, artistic displays, and specialized fields like architecture. These niche applications contribute to the expansion of the plastic model kits market by providing customized and creative uses for the kits outside traditional hobbies.

MARKET DYNAMICS

Market dynamics include driving and restraining factors, opportunities and challenges stating the market conditions.

Driving Factors

Expansion of Online Communities and Social Media

The proliferation of digital communities and social networking sites, including YouTube, Instagram, and hobby-specific discussion boards, is propelling the expansion of the plastic model kits industry. These venues provide model enthusiasts with the chance to broadcast their projects, methods, and educational content to a worldwide viewership. Networking through social media facilitates connections among aficionados, allowing them to exchange knowledge and display their craftsmanship, which in turn sparks heightened curiosity in the pastime. The increased exposure and interaction on these virtual stages are instrumental in drawing in novice enthusiasts, fostering brand allegiance, and broadening the market reach for plastic model kits.

Restraining Factor

Complexity and Skill Barriers

Plastic model kits, particularly those of superior quality or advanced level, can present a challenge and demand considerable expertise and perseverance. For novices, the intricate processes of assembly, painting, and final touch-ups can appear overwhelming. Such intricacy might deter newcomers to the pastime, especially those unaccustomed to complex crafting tasks. The demanding learning curve could restrict the hobby's appeal to a wider demographic, including younger individuals or those in search of quicker amusement. Producers might consider creating more straightforward kits or offering enhanced guidance to help surmount this obstacle.

Opportunity

Emerging Markets and Increased Disposable Income

With the ongoing expansion of economies in developing markets like India, Southeast Asia, and Latin America, there is a projected increase in the appetite for plastic model kits. The rise in disposable earnings in these areas is permitting a larger number of individuals to partake in hobby-centric activities, including the assembly of models. Moreover, the youthful and tech-proficient demographic in these territories offers an opening for manufacturers to debut novel and culturally resonant offerings, tailored to the varied interests of an expanding middle-income bracket.

Challenge

Shifting Consumer Preferences

Tastes among buyers in the plastic model kits industry are undergoing transformation, with newer age groups demonstrating a waning fascination with conventional pastimes such as assembling models. As digital leisure pursuits, including video games and internet-based streaming platforms, persist in their prevalence, the focus of enthusiasts is increasingly diverted from conventional model kits. Producers are compelled to innovate by broadening their range of products, integrating more engaging features, or capitalizing on cutting-edge technologies like augmented reality (AR) to resonate with a younger, tech-oriented audience.

PLASTIC MODEL KITS MARKET REGIONAL INSIGHTS

North America:

In the North American region, the market for plastic model kits is bolstered by a robust foundation of aficionados and collectors, predominantly in the United States and Canada. The appetite for these kits is fueled by hobbyists across various age groups, as well as specialized markets such as those interested in military and automotive miniatures. Amidst a resurgence in vintage pastimes and a prevailing ethos of do-it-yourself (DIY) originality, the market in this area is anticipated to exhibit sustained expansion, with a particular focus on the collectible model segment.

Europe:

The continent of Europe boasts a well-established domain for plastic model kits, especially in nations like Germany, the United Kingdom, and France, where assembling models has been a favored leisure activity for many years. The area's profound cultural fascination with historical military figures, locomotives, and flying machines has sustained a steady appetite for such kits. Europe also hosts numerous prominent creators and purveyors of these kits, bolstering the industry's vigor.

Asia:

The Asia holds considerable promise for the expansion of the market for plastic model kits, especially within nations such as Japan, China, and South Korea. Japan stands out as a pioneer in the sphere of manufacturing and utilizing plastic model kits, celebrated for its superior kits and advancements within the hobby domain. The burgeoning middle-income demographic in China and across Asia, coupled with a burgeoning fascination with Western pastimes and merchandise, is broadening the market scope. Moreover, the escalating enthusiasm for DIY and recreational pursuits in Asia offers a chance for the plastic model kits market to gain a more substantial foothold in local markets.

KEY INDUSTRY PLAYERS

Key Players and Competitive Landscape in the Plastic Model Kits Market

The plastic model kits market is super competitive, with a few big players calling the shots. Companies like Bandai, Tamiya, and Revell are top dogs because they've been around for a while, offer tons of products, and have lots of loyal fans. Bandai's got a big advantage thanks to its deals with big brands like Gundam, which makes people want their kits even more. Tamiya and Revell stay ahead by making high-quality models, especially of cars, military stuff, and planes. Other brands, like Hasegawa, Academy Plastic Model, and Italeri, also have a good chunk of the market. They focus on traditional kits with historical, military, and civilian themes. Newer brands, like Meng Model and HobbyBoss, are making a name for themselves with their detailed, innovative kits that serious hobbyists love. The competition's fierce, so companies keep upping their game by improving quality, getting new licenses, and investing in digital design. Working together and branching out into new products are also big for growth in this industry.

List of Top Plastic Model Kits Market Companies

Bandai Co., Ltd.
Tamiya Inc.
Revell GmbH
Airfix (Hornby Hobbies Ltd.)
Hasegawa Corporation
Academy Plastic Model Co., Ltd.
Italeri S.p.A.
Dragon Models Limited
Trumpeter
Zvezda LLC
AMT (Round 2, LLC)
Moebius Models
Meng Model
Eduard Model Accessories
Fine Molds Corporation
HobbyBoss
MiniArt Models
Takom
ICM Holding
AFV Club (Hobby Fan)
AUTO art

KEY INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENTS

2024: Bandai Namco Toys & Collectibles America (BNTCA) is offering the largest location-based entertainment experience to date at Anime Expo 2024. This includes the GUNDAM BASE LOS ANGELES POP-UP, franchise displays, exclusive collectibles, photo opportunities, and giveaways. Additionally, they will be hosting a special Gundam model workshop for attendees, allowing them to build Gundam model kits for free.

2024: Tamiya announced some exciting new kits at the Nuremberg Toy Fair 2024, including the impressive M4 Sherman Tank R/C. This 1/16 scale tank features moving suspension and sound effects, emitting a thunderous roar when the 105mm howitzer fires. Moreover, Tamiya also announced other new plastic model kits, including new kits in military, automotive, and motorcycle categories.

2022: Airfix launched an amazing 1/24 scale Supermarine Spitfire Mk.IXc super kit in 2022. These super kits are highly anticipated for their rich details and impressive size.

REPORT COVERAGE

The study encompasses a comprehensive SWOT analysis and provides insights into future developments within the market. It examines various factors that contribute to the growth of the market, exploring a wide range of market categories and potential applications that may impact its trajectory in the coming years. The analysis takes into account both current trends and historical turning points, providing a holistic understanding of the market's components and identifying potential areas for growth.

The plastic model kits industry is growing globally, driven by increased hobby and DIY activities. Producers are meeting consumer demand with more detailed, customizable kits appealing to a wide range of enthusiasts and collectors. Advanced techniques like 3D printing are enhancing model accuracy and consumer satisfaction. Licensing with popular franchises is a significant growth driver, attracting a younger audience.

Looking forward, the industry is expected to expand further due to a rising interest in collectibles and DIY culture. Online platforms will facilitate kit sales and information sharing, creating new business opportunities. Sustainability and eco-friendly practices may influence future manufacturing, with more companies likely to adopt green processes. Innovation and market expansion into untapped regions are crucial for the industry's long-term growth.