The history of scale model manufacturer Minichamps GmbH began relatively recently, in 1990. In that time it has achieved remarkable results and now holds around 60% of the worldwide market for 1:43 models.
Founded in Aachen, Germany, the company was originally called Paul’s Model Art GmbH. Its first 1:43 model was the Audi V8.
In 1996 Paul’s Model Art GmbH officially became Minichamps GmbH.
The headquarters remain in Aachen, where models are developed before being made by hand in China. Production employs around 3,000 people. Minichamps was the first company in the world to base the retail price of scale models on manual labour rates. Its models consequently range from €30 to €250.
A special chapter in its history is the 1:64 MikroChamps series, comprising the Michael Schumacher and McLaren ranges. The models were sold in different countries and nobody owns a complete collection, making the series particularly sought after by collectors.
Interesting facts about Minichamps GmbH:
- The range includes Classic & Racing models, Moto GP motorcycles and Formula 1 cars.
- In Germany alone, more than 1,000 specialist shops sell its models.
- Over 12,000 model variants have been developed, with average annual production of 3,000,000 units and total output exceeding 30,000,000.
- The limited 2003 release of Pit Stop Formula-1 Panasonic Toyota Racing TF102 sold out immediately.
- In 2006 Minichamps took every prize-winning place in Modellfahrzeug magazine's best 1:43 and best 1:18 model categories.
- Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Ltd. authorised Minichamps to make a 1:43 Rolls Royce Phantom Drophead Coupe.
- A museum of Minichamps history opened in Aachen in 2008.
- In the final quarter of 2010, shops will welcome Mercedes-Benz GP Petronas driven by Michael Schumacher – MGP W01 chassis, McLaren Mercedes MP4-25 Vodaphone driven by Lewis Hamilton, McLaren Mercedes MP4-25 Vodaphone driven by Jenson Button, and other models.