We’re happy to announce Expediens Ltd finished acquisition of KP-Kopro (Kovozávody Prostějov) model kit factory. The negotiations began with Czech KP-Kopro s.r.o. in mid 2009 and the acquisition successfully completed just before Christmas ‘09. All assests required to continue production of the well-known KP model kits are currently handled at our company’s headquarters.
The KP factory was established in Prostějov (former Czechoslovakia) in 1953 and an employee, Jaroslav Zatloukalm a passionate pilot and aircraft modeller started the production of plastic model kits in 1969. The first model designed by him was the famous Czech subsonic jet trainer Aero L-29 Delfín (Dolphin) in 1/72 scale and it reached the model shops in 1970. At the time this was among the first plastic model kits in Europe.
In 2009 KP-Kopro started looking for a professionally based investor to sell their line of model kit business. Now – after the takeover - we are proudly managing this heritage. The 40 years old tradition encouraged us to continue producing model kits for the pleasure of modellers all around the world. The full assortment consists of 65 unique product based on 40 model types - including 1/72 scale aircrafts (prop and jet ones), 1/72 helicopters as well as 1/48 scale jet aircrafts. Our plans are to start production and distribution the full product range in Q1 2010 under KP Models brand name.
Our Goals
Since KP started manufacturing a few decads ago and during this time of scale modelling related technology has undergone tremendous progress, some moulding tools needs to be maintained and upgraded. The maintenance of several injection moulding tools had already began to achieve crystal-clear transparent parts, nicely engraved panel lines & raised rivets and remove pebbly and/or irregular surfaces where it’s necessary and possible. In addition, we’re planning to pack exciting and never released paint schemes and marks into new KP boxes. Currently our engineers are working on a 1/72 WW2 bomber and complementing it to get the original Martin-Bloch aircraft. By at the end of this process we will surprise French aviation enthusiasts. Furthermore we would like to treat the modellers with some fine resin and photo-etched parts in the boxes to provide modellers high detailed kits. In 2011 we will expand our offerings with some brand new product in 1/48 scale.
In 2010, we will certainly participate on the major European model shows and planning to visit one or two major exhibitions in the USA. Let’s meet there - in the meantime watch our news on the official kp-models.com website!