getifero

I understand your reaction. On the other side it would be only logical to complement the Beluga XL (herpa’s sole mayor 1:500-scale innovation in recent years) with GSE.

Interesting were Mr. Külgen’s explanations of herpa’s reluctance towards 1:400-scale releases. He said that herpa’s aim in 1:400-scale is mainly to occupy niches (as an example with the Antonov AN-225). He called 1:400-scale the »Wild West« of model making and pointed out that in this market too much brands where rushing out too many, mostly unlicensed models which were produced in sometimes ridiculous quantities. He further argued that herpa could never compete in terms of speed, because herpa often would have to consult airlines or other right holders. But then as an example of a brand with (speed or further) advantages he named Gemini-Jets, a company not known for legal infringements.

Sometimes I get the impression that somewhat of this niche thinking is reflected in 1:500-scale, where herpa despite of - or maybe precisely because of - the absence of competition seems to be acting often so awkward and slow.

Disappointing because incredible were Mr. Külgen’s wordy justifications of the new boxes (not worth of being repeated at tis point).

Quality control was not a big issue and was merely touched in terms of detached tyres (here Mr. Külgen revealed that he has considerable experience in adhering detached tyres to landing gears without excess glue).

Somewhat cryptic were Mr. Külgen’s statements regarding Southwest Airlines [»Southwest is a very complex issue. We had a very long lasting license. Then they came up with new contracts that were blatant, let me put I like that. We could not agree. We are still trying to gain a new access. Contracts are very complex and very strict from what I’ve gathered from other companies«].

To existent and possible future competitors in 1:500-scale Mr. Külgen was well informed. He classified JC-Wings past and upcoming 1:500 releases as very risky (»We will never do this off-handedly« [act without license-agreement]) and was aware of NG Model’s rapidly increasing model range and high standing among collectors in 1:400-scale (»They blow out all sorts of models. They are supposed to be very well received«) and rumours about a NG Model 1:500-scale engagement (»If they ever will do something in 1:500-scale… [short break], that remains to be seen«).