Model Kits Market Size, Share, Growth, and Industry Analysis, By Type (Aircrafts Model, Cars Model, Tanks Model, Ships Model, Trains Model, Characters Model and Other Model), By Application (Online Store and Offline Store) and Regional Insights and Forecast to 2035

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MODEL KITS MARKET OVERVIEW

The global model kits market size at USD 2.56 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 2.65 billion in 2026, growing further to USD 3.54 billion by 2035 at an estimated CAGR of 3.5% from 2026 to 2035.

The model kits market offers a great variety in scales and types that would help hobbyists and enthusiasts assemble and detail precise replicas of vehicles, aircraft, military equipment, and figures. This market is fueled by a combination of nostalgia, educational value, and intricate craft associated with model assembly. In its products, it offers an extensive array of finely detailed models with diverse subjects that can satisfy the changing hobbyist need.

The market of model kits has been on the rise due to renewed interest in hobby activities and increased disposable income. Secondly, e-commerce bridged the gap between producers and consumers across geographical boundaries. Moreover, advanced technologies, including 3D printing software and digital design, enable companies to produce very accurate models and more intricate ones easily. The final product is part of the process that is also used as a display piece, which collectors and hobbyists are fond of, ensuring stable demand in this niche market segment but with passionate consumers.

KEY FINDINGS

COVID-19 IMPACT

Increase in home-based activities led to a surge in market demand

The global COVID-19 pandemic has been unprecedented and staggering, with the market experiencing higher-than-anticipated demand across all regions compared to pre-pandemic levels. The sudden market growth reflected by the rise in CAGR is attributable to market’s growth and demand returning to pre-pandemic levels.

The COVID-19 pandemic proved to be a trigger for the model kits market. Due to the lockdown and measures of social distancing, more people turned to hobbies and home-based activities. Since most individuals were confined at home, building models was found to be quite relaxing and greatly satisfying by many hobbyists and new participants in this activity. This fact contributed to the huge rise in sales.

LATEST TRENDS

Technological innovations and eco-consciousness drive evolution in model kits market

Some of the emerging trends that are forming in model kits include technology innovations and changes in consumer behavior. One such notable trend is that 3D printing and digital design technologies are increasingly being used to create more elaborate details and custom models. Another trend is the rising interest in limited editions and collector items that appeal to enthusiasts in search of special, unique, and rare pieces. Moreover, environmentally conscious consumers are rapidly demanding green materials and sustainable packaging. Online platforms and social media are also becoming key to community building and sharing, including virtual workshops, tutorials, and competitions. These trends reflect the changing nature of the market toward innovation, sustainability, and greater consumer engagement.

• According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), approximately 42% of hobbyists aged 18–35 have reported increased interest in model kits over the past five years.
• CPSC data shows that 87% of model kits now comply with ASTM F963 safety guidelines, ensuring safety for children under 12 years of age.

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MODEL KITS MARKET SEGMENTATION

By Type

Based on type the global market can be categorized into aircrafts model, cars model, tanks model, ships model, trains model, characters model and other model.

• Aircraft Models: Scale models replicating commercial, military, and historical aircraft. These are popular not only with aviation enthusiasts but even history buffs.

• Cars Models: These include classic, modern, and racing car models that have a greater appeal among car enthusiasts or car collectors.

• Tanks Models: Military tanks across several eras, thus attracting model builders and military history enthusiasts.

• Ship Models: From historical sailing vessels to modern naval ships, these find favor among maritime history buffs and other hobbyists.

• Train Models: This includes model trains and railways  that are rather appealing to railway enthusiasts.

• Character Models: Figures from movies, comics, anime, and historic figures, with an appeal to fans of particular franchises or periods in history.

• Other Models: These include other miscellaneous categories like space exploration models and fantasy theme kits, catering to special niche interests.

By Application

Based on application the global market can be categorized into online store and offline store.

• Online Store: E-commerce platforms that offer tremendous customization with model kits and the facility of home delivery.

• Offline Store: The customers can visit these retail outlets physically where they can see the model kits and avail products instantly with proper guidance.Top of Form

DRIVING FACTORS

Technological advancements boost market growth

The adoption of 3D printing and digital design technologies has changed the model kits market growth, now able to realize models with very fine details and complexity, which was earlier impossible or at best very difficult to create. These technologies can be used in making parts that are highly accurate, ensuring finished models produced are life-like and representative of their real-life counterpart. Customization has also been a big trend, with hobbyists now able to modify or produce parts uniquely with 3D printers. This level of detail and customization has also attracted an entirely new generation of enthusiasts who admire the innovation and creativity associated with model building.

• Reports indicate that 38% of households purchasing toys are buying model kits for educational and recreational purposes, reflecting growing engagement among hobbyists.
• Surveys highlight that 65% of parents believe model kits improve children’s fine motor skills and cognitive abilities, making them a preferred educational tool.

Increased hobby engagement promotes market growth

The outbreak of COVID-19 brought widespread lockdowns and social distancing that had people turning to new hobbies and indoor activities. As a result, model building was very well-received as a therapeutic and engaging practice. Everybody had to stay home most of the time and accordingly shifted their demand to creative and fulfilling pastimes like model kits. With the rise of virtual communities and social media, many hobbyists started to share their work, ask for advice, and start virtual workshops and competitions. Electronic commerce also contributed to this growth by increasing the hobby's visibility and accessibility during the period.

RESTRAINING FACTORS

Supply chain disruptions may restrain market growth

Supply chain disruptions pose severe challenges to the model kits market. Such disturbances, largely associated with global economic instability, geopolitical tensions, and natural disasters, would make it difficult for the availability of raw materials and components that would go into making model kits. For instance, the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in shutdowns and congestion in transportation, slowing down the production of various goods due to a lack of some elements: plastics and decals, for example. The supply chain issues are bound to raise the production cost and consumer prices, thereby dampening demand. Moreover, such disruptions on a longer term would halt the on-time launch of new products, thus hampering the growth rate and innovation of the market.

• About 54% of model kit manufacturers face difficulties in meeting stringent safety standards, impacting production timelines.
• Industry data suggests that 48% of manufacturers report delays in obtaining raw materials due to global logistics challenges.
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MODEL KITS MARKET REGIONAL INSIGHTS

Asia-Pacific region dominate global market due to presence of significant manufacturers and large consumer base

The market is primarily segregated into Europe, Latin America, Asia Pacific, North America, and Middle East & Africa.

In 2019, the model kits market share is dominated by the Asia-Pacific region. This is largely attributed to major manufacturers' present within the region and the huge consumer base. This region includes the leaders like Japan, South Korea, and China, which represent the prominent companies producing high-end quality and innovative model kits. In particular, Japan continues to have a rich culture of model building, backed by a strong domestic market and exports to other countries. This region, therefore, becomes a potential hub due to advanced manufacturing capabilities backed by access to the latest technologies and an established supply chain network. Increasing popularity of hobbies and leisure activities amongst the population in emerging economies within the Asia-Pacific region adds to the market growth, thereby strengthening its leading position.

KEY INDUSTRY PLAYERS

Technological Innovation and Consumer Engagement Propel Market Dominance in the industry

The key players in model kits lead the market through a combination of innovation, diversification, and strategic engagement. Companies invest in state-of-the-art technologies such as 3D printing and digital design to come up with highly detailed models that could be tailored according to the fastidious tastes of hobbyists. They are also diversifying the product lines into models of aircraft, ships, historical vehicles, military equipment, modern vehicles, and even beloved characters in order to engage different consumer interests. The emphasis on sustainability-oriented activities using environmentally friendly materials and waste reduction also lures more green-minded consumers. Further, these companies' ability to leverage e-commerce platforms and social media venues to reach potential customers worldwide is another growth driver, offering virtual tutorials and building a sense of community. Strategic licensing agreements with popular franchises and a robustly developed global distribution network further enhance their reach and brand loyalty.

• Tamiya Models: Tamiya Models offers highly detailed kits, particularly in military and automotive categories, with over 70% of products featuring advanced realism for collectors.
• Hasegawa Models: Hasegawa provides a broad selection of aircraft, ships, and vehicles, appealing to 60% of hobbyists seeking varied skill-level options.

List of Market Players Profiled

• Tamiya Models (Japan)
• Hasegawa Models (Japan)
• Academy Models (South Korea)
• Italeri S.p.A (Italy)
• Revell (United States)
• Heller SA (France)
• Airfix Models (United Kingdom)
• Round 2 (United States)
• Moebius (United States)
• Aoshima (Japan)
• Trumpeter (China)
• Bronco Models (China)
• Fujimi Mokei (Japan)
• Dragon Models (Hong Kong)
• MiniArt Models (Ukraine)
• Minicraft Models (United States)
• Forces of Valor (Hong Kong)
• Bachmann Trains (United States)

INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT

May 2023: Tamiya Models, a Japanese plastic model kit manufacturer and market leader, released a very detailed 1/24 scale model of the Ford GT Mk II. This new edition comes with precision-engineered parts, which very nearly emulate the design of this racing icon and allow for detailed decals and painting guides to help enhance the building experience. This release emphasizes Tamiya's continued commitment to producing model kits of the highest quality and craftsmanship for hobbyists everywhere.

REPORT COVERAGE

It is through model kits market reports that one gets the overview of the industry with market size, share, and growth forecasts. The market segmentation has been carried out based on type as aircraft, cars, tanks, ships, trains, characters, and other models, and based on application, it becomes online stores and offline stores. It further drills down to the main driving and restraining factors, regional insights, and the impact of technological advancements and COVID-19 on dynamics. Furthermore, it profiles top market players along with recent industrial developments.