News

Bandai Raises Prices;
Opens New Factory

Retail prices for models and collectibles from the popular anime
“Mobile Suit Gundam,” including Gundam plastic models (or gunpla), will progressively increase from April 2025, major toymaker Bandai Spirits Co. announced.

The first price increase since Gundam plastic models hit the market in 1980 was due to increased costs of raw materials and logistics, the company, affiliated with Bandai Namco Holdings, said.

Bandai Spirits will raise the prices of 71 plastic models, including Gundam models, by 2.9% to 42.9% from April to June next year. The company plans to raise the prices of some other products beginning in July. Prices are expected to increase by 2.9% to 42.9%, depending on the product.

In addition, Bandai Spirits announced it will construct a new factory for the Gundam plastic model kits and figures in Japan’s Shizuoka city, which will become operational in 2025. Production capacity is expected to increase by 35% to meet growing domestic and global demand.

In 2024, Bandai sold more than 26.34 million plastic model kits and figures, and 50% of these sales came from outside Japan. The company has shipped nearly 1 billion model kits since 1980.

Springfield HobbyTown
Moves To Larger Location

Construction for a new space for HobbyTown in Springfield, Missouri, is underway, owner Tim Weyers told OzarksFirst News. Contractors are converting a former Kmart building into the new toy and hobby center, which Weyers said will be the largest of its kind in Missouri. The new space will have 13,000 square feet, compared to 4,000 at the current location.

In addition to retail space, Weyers explained the new store will have a track area for RC vehicles, as well as ceilings tall enough to fly model planes and helicopters. Weyers hopes to have a grand opening in February.

POWERUP Wins Parenting Award

The POWERUP 4.0 Smartphone Controlled Paper Airplane Kit was named a 2024 National Parenting Product Awards (NAPPA) winner.

NAPPA is one of the longest-running awards programs in the United States and has become a trusted source for families looking for the best toy, baby and family products on the market.

To determine if the products submitted for the NAPPA program deserve the coveted award seal, families and their children act as toy testers by playing with the submitted products and providing feedback. After they played with the POWERUP 4.0, the families shared their experiences, calling it a “fun toy” and “a true STEAM project with the combo of art and tech.” Another toy tester shared, “If you have a kid who enjoys crafts and tech, this would be a cool toy!”

The POWERUP 4.0 is powerful enough to fly paper, balsa, cardboard and foam planes by blending technology with the thrill of sending homemade planes into flight. Features include an onboard flight computer, autopilot assist, gyro and accelerometer providing fly-by-wire capability, and flight telemetry stats.

Model Kit Market Set To
Grow Through 2028

The global hobby model kits market is estimated to grow by 3.65%, or $219 million, through 2028, according to research firm Technavio.

The growing disposable income of the middle-class population is driving market growth, along with the growth in 3D printing. 

The hobbyist market has been fueled by the growing middle-class population and increased access to global media sources. Online sales have become a significant revenue stream, with e-commerce platforms and digital design tools enabling
hobbyists to create and purchase models from anywhere. 

The emphasis on licensed merchandise, particularly for movie and TV franchise tie-ins, has also boosted sales. Replicas of vehicles, aircraft, military equipment and ships are popular choices, appealing to both nostalgia and educational value. Craft activities have gained traction as home-based hobbies, while eco-consciousness influences consumer behavior, leading to sustainable packaging and limited editions. 

Online platforms and community building have further enhanced the hobbyist experience, making it a thriving industry for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Hobbies Make People Happier

New research commissioned by Hornby Hobbies has revealed that hobbies significantly boost well-being. In today’s fast-paced world, hobbies such as model building, gardening, painting and board games provide essential benefits, including stress relief, skill development and social connections.

According to the study conducted in the United Kingdom, those who engage in hobbies are 85% happier than those without, with 61% of hobbyists using them to boost mental health.

The study found that those who engage in hobbies experience greater life satisfaction, increased happiness and improved mental health. Notably, 93% of people in the U.K. actively participate in some form of hobby, reflecting the widespread popularity and integral role of hobbies in today’s society.

Those who choose to partake in hobbies with others are more satisfied with their lives, while those who have hobbies with their spouse or partner report the highest satisfaction with life. Today, 61% of Brits use hobbies to boost mental health, 52% are more interested in mindful activities, 49% are open to trying new hobbies, 43% find hobbies more socially acceptable, and 43% took the opportunity to start a new hobby during the pandemic.

Social connections are a vital benefit of hobbies, with 48% of people engaging in them with others, including partners, friends and family. Despite busy schedules, 89% participate in hobbies weekly, and 90% spend money, averaging $50-$100 monthly. Scale modeling, a particularly popular hobby, is seeing a resurgence among younger audiences seeking creative and social outlets. With one in four Brits interested in model making in the coming year, the future of this cherished hobby looks promising.

“The benefits of having a hobby cannot be overstated,” said Olly Raeburn, CEO of Hornby Hobbies. “Our research underscores how hobbies contribute to mental well-being, happiness and social connectivity. At Hornby Hobbies, we are dedicated to supporting and growing the hobbyist community, as we believe that hobbies are a fundamental part of a balanced and fulfilling life. The incredible participation rate shows just how popular and vital hobbies are in today’s society.”