Hornby returns Humbrol manufacturing to the UK

Humbrol, the U.K.’s No.1 modelling brand has moved over 60% of its model and craft manufacturing back to the UK from China.

Humbrol’s manufacturing has been moved back to the UK from China to improve supply, and ensure high quality standards continue to be met, but from an easier location nearer to the Margate Head Office.  Humbrol Ltd. originally moved manufacturing from Hull to China in the early 2000’s.

Humbrol has traditionally supported the iconic model brand Airfix, and a number of products have already been introduced to strengthen this strategy.  However under Hornby’s ownership it has broadened its target market with a diverse product range giving a new, wider focus towards model railways and war gaming.  Re-branding its products also enables Humbrol to focus on the fast growing hobby and craft market, with new ranges already in development.

Product Manager for Humbrol, Dale Luckhurst said; “It’s been a busy 18 months relocating products back to the UK especially our largest range - enamel paints. Our entire colour range has been reformulated and colour matched back to original Humbrol standards.”

“Over the next year, Humbrol will be growing as a model and craft brand. We will continue to support Airfix and our sister brands: Hornby, Scalextric and Corgi.  However, we have released a number of new products targeting the fast growing craft and DIY market.  More and more people are taking up craft based activities and as a brand, we are listening to that trend.  We’ve developed a number of new products to meet demand and as most of our manufacturing is now based in the UK we can work faster at giving retailers and consumers what they want.” 

Humbrol’s well-established and most popular range of enamel paint as well as their new acrylic sprays are now produced in London and Manchester. Humbrol produces over 460 different products and accessories and are sold in all major and independent craft and model retailers. New products include a Humbrol Work Station (RRP £19.99), additional spray paints (RRP from £4.99) and new weathering powders (RRP £3.99).