Revell

Overview

Revell GmbH is a manufacturer of plastic scale models originating from the United States but now headquartered in Germany. It produces kits of airplanes, ships, vehicles, figures, remote-controlled models, and toys, positioning as Europe's market leader in plastic model kits with global distribution.¹⁴⁵⁷

History

Revell began in the US in the early 1940s as a toy manufacturer before focusing on plastic model kits, with a German subsidiary Revell Plastics GmbH founded in 1956 in Bünde.⁴⁶⁷ The US company merged with Monogram in 1986 to form Revell-Monogram, which faced bankruptcy in 2007 and was acquired by Hobbico.¹⁴ The German branch separated in 2006, was briefly independent, then acquired by Hobbico in 2012, and since 2018 has been part of the QCP Group, with US operations now serving as an importer.⁴⁶⁷

Product Lines

Manufacturing

Products are manufactured by Revell GmbH in Bünde, Germany, serving as the primary production and development center.¹⁵⁶⁷ US operations function mainly as an importer and distributor of kits from Germany.⁶

Notable Products

• Airplane Scale Model Kits - Detailed kits of aircraft like fighters and airliners.
• Ship Scale Model Kits - Models of warships and commercial vessels.
• Vehicle Scale Model Kits - Kits of cars, trucks, and military vehicles.
• RC Models - Remote-controlled planes and vehicles for hobby use.

Reputation

Revell is recognized by enthusiasts for its long tradition in precise plastic model kits and as a market leader in Europe with innovative products.⁵⁷ Criticisms include varying quality control in some kits and reliance on imports affecting US availability post-restructuring.⁶ Professionals value its broad range but note competition from specialized brands.