80 Years of Innovation in Model Railways
Since 1946, PECO has been at the forefront of the model railway hobby, designing, engineering and manufacturing products trusted by railway modellers across the globe. As we celebrate our 80th year, we're proud to reflect on a remarkable journey that has seen PECO grow from a small Devon business into the world's leading manufacturer of model railway track, while remaining true to our British manufacturing heritage.
Today, PECO continues to design and manufacture its products from its headquarters in Beer, Devon, supplying independent model shops, specialist retailers and railway enthusiasts throughout the UK and more than 35 countries worldwide.
A Proud British Manufacturing Heritage
PECO was founded in 1946 by Sydney Pritchard, who established the business in nearby Branscombe following the Second World War. His innovative approach to product design, including the development of a patented railway coupling, laid the foundations for what would become one of the most respected names in model railways.
Nearly eight decades later, PECO remains a family-owned British manufacturer, with product development, engineering and manufacturing continuing to take place in Devon.
Manufactured in Beer, Devon
Every PECO product begins its journey at our Devon headquarters, where our experienced teams design, engineer and manufacture an extensive range of products for railway modellers.
Our catalogue includes:
- Model railway track
- Track accessories
- Rolling stock
- Plastic kits
- Scenic products
- Lineside accessories
- Electrical products
- Publications
PECO is best known for its Setrack and Streamline track systems, which have become the preferred choice for railway modellers in multiple gauges and scales around the world.
Supporting Railway Modellers Worldwide
From beginners building their first layout to experienced exhibition modellers, PECO products have become synonymous with reliability, quality and realism.
Today, we proudly support:
- More than 300 independent retailers across the UK
- Customers in over 35 countries
- Thousands of model railway clubs and societies
- Railway modellers of every skill level
Our continued investment in product development ensures PECO remains at the forefront of the hobby while supporting the independent retailers who are at its heart.
More Than Manufacturing
PECO commitment to the hobby extends far beyond manufacturing.
We proudly publish two of the world's leading railway modelling magazines:
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Railway Modeller
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Continental Modeller
These long-established publications continue to inspire railway enthusiasts with layout features, modelling techniques, product reviews and the latest hobby news.
Visit Pecorama
Located alongside PECO headquarters in Beer, Pecorama has welcomed generations of visitors since opening in 1975 and remains an important part of the PECO story.
Visitors can enjoy:
- The Beer Heights Light Railway
- Beautiful award-winning gardens
- A model railway exhibition
- Harburn Hobbies Model Shop
- Seasonal events throughout the year
Pecorama operates on selected dates throughout the year. For the latest opening dates and visitor information, please visit the Pecorama website before planning your visit.
Investing in Our People
Behind every PECO product is a skilled team whose knowledge and experience have helped shape the company for generations.
Many colleagues have dedicated decades of service to PECO, with some celebrating over 50 years with the business. Their expertise, craftsmanship and passion continue to play a vital role in maintaining the quality our customers expect.
Looking Towards the Future
As PECO celebrates its 80th year, our focus remains firmly on the future.
We continue to invest in:
- New product development
- British manufacturing
- Sustainable production methods, including the use of recycled plastics where possible
- Supporting independent retailers
- Growing our international presence
- Inspiring the next generation of railway modellers
While the hobby continues to evolve, our commitment remains unchanged... to produce high-quality, British-made model railway products that inspire creativity and support railway modellers around the world.
Working closely with retailers, distributors and modelling communities worldwide, PECO remains committed to delivering innovative, British-manufactured products, exceptional service and long-term support for the model railway industry. As we enter our ninth decade, we look forward to building on our heritage while continuing to invest in the future of the hobby and the success of our trade partners.
