
Probably the world’s best known manufacturer of plastic construction kits, Airfix has had a turbulent history. 1949 saw the company make its first model of a Ferguson tractor to be sold in Woolworths stores. More followed, and the company rapidly expanded its range of model subjects over the next 40 years so that customers could buy an Airfix model of almost any vehicle in any scale.
By the mid 1970’s, engineering techniques had improved so far that Airfix were able to manufacture in the big 1/24 scale, and models of the Spitfire, Hurricane and Harrier were soon on sale. Airfix toys and models are synonymous with plastic modelling as a whole - and many people will refer to the company when talking about other maker’s competitive products. Airfix however, also expanded into other toy related areas with ranges of arts and crafts, dolls, games and even model railways.
The 1980’s saw a decline in the popular plastic modelling hobby, which many believe was due to the increasing popularity of computer games. Airfix was purchased by an American company, and sold again in the mid 2000’s when they were acquired by Hornby Hobbies who have invested heavily in recreating Airfix to its former glory. No doubt there will be many more chapters to come in the future of the famous Airfix toy and model company.
The original online book seller now sells virtually every product you can imagine... including toys!
Having traded since 2007, Relish Models is situated in Selby but sells Airfix to customers all over the world via their website.