PECO (Pritchard Patent Product Co. Ltd) has always been a forward-thinking family business with a long tradition of innovation. The business commenced trading in 1946 and is now in its third generation. Although the history of the company is of considerable importance, the present management prefer to use this knowledge and experience as crucial inspiration for the development of the future.
The PECO Timeline
Some key milestones in the history of Pritchard Patent Product Company (PECO).
1946
PECO is founded by Sydney and Claudine Pritchard in a small workshop. This marks the start of the company.
1971
The manufacturing unit moved to its current position in Beer, Devon, establishing the long-term base of operations.
1973
The offices and retail shop, together with an exhibition centre were completed later that year.
2004
PECO launches its Code 83 track range for the North American HO market, expanding its international reach.
2019
PECO introduces new bullhead track and the Unifrog system, modernising the product line for a new generation of modellers.
2026
PECO continues to evolve as it reaches its 80th anniversary, still family-run and recognised around the world.
Our Heritage
Our story began in 1946 in a small workshop in Devon, driven by a passion for engineering and a love of model railways. What started as a practical solution for fellow enthusiasts grew into a trusted name recognised around the world. Decades later, we continue to manufacture in the UK, carrying forward the same principles of craftsmanship, reliability and commitment to the hobby that defined us from the beginning.
Early Innovation
From its early years, PECO concentrated its manufacturing expertise on producing trackwork for the model railway enthusiast. Beginning with individual track components, the range soon developed into ready-made HO/OO track with fibre sleepers. As plastics became increasingly popular during the 1960s, PECO introduced the now-famous Streamline range, which has since become one of the world's leading model railway track systems, covering scales from Z to G. In 2004, PECO expanded further with the introduction of Code 83 track, developed specifically for the North American HO market. Most recently, in 2022, PECO reintroduced TT:120 with a new range of Streamline track and accessories, bringing true 1:120 scale track back to British railway modelling.
PECO Streamline
The introduction of PECO Streamline track marked a defining moment in the company’s history. Designed to offer greater realism, flexibility and reliability, Streamline set new standards for model railway construction and quickly became a benchmark for serious modellers. While only part of a much wider range of accessories and scenic products, PECO Streamline helped establish the brand’s reputation for precision engineering and enduring quality that continues today.
PECO Today
Today, PECO combines heritage engineering with modern design and manufacturing. We continue to produce in the UK while serving a global community of modellers through our products, retail and publishing. As the hobby evolves, we are investing in new technologies, expanding our ranges and finding new ways to inspire the next generation, strengthening our role at the heart of the hobby for decades to come.
"We Have Estimated That We Have Produced Enough Track to Fit Around the Circumference of the World. (24,901 Miles)"
1975 │ Grand Opening
2025 │ 50th Anniversary
Bringing PECO to Life
PECO started inviting tourists to see the new indoor model railway exhibition in the summer of 1974. Modelrama was then born. So successful was this enterprise that it was decided to build a miniature passenger-carrying railway within the gardens for the 1975 season. Wilbert Awdry, of Thomas the Tank Engine fame, officially opened the Beer Heights Light Railway on 14th July 1975 and also "christened" our first locomotive, Thomas Jnr, which was possibly the first live steam engine to be adorned with a Thomas face.
Over the following years, a family attraction was created, with landscaped gardens, children's play areas, and the addition of the Orion Pullman coach in 1978. The name then changed to Pecorama. The gardens were strengthened and improved for the Millennium, making Pecorama a destination that connected heritage, leisure, and a living culture of model railways. In 2025, Pecorama celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Beer Heights Light Railway, reflecting five decades of inspiring enthusiasts and visitors alike.
PECO Publications
Publishing has been an important part of the PECO story for decades. Railway Modeller and Continental Modeller have become two of the hobby's leading monthly magazines, bringing together inspiring layouts, practical modelling techniques, product reviews, news and expert opinion from the UK and around the world. Together, they continue to support and inspire railway modellers in both print and digital formats.
Railway Modeller
Publishing is another important aspect of PECO's work. For over seven decades, Railway Modeller has remained Great Britain's best-loved model railway magazine, with the largest readership in the hobby. Each monthly issue is packed with inspiring layouts, practical modelling
articles, product reviews, news and advertising, making it an essential read for railway modellers of all interests.
Continental Modeller
Continental Modeller is also well established and has been inspiring enthusiasts since its first publication in April 1979. The title is of interest to all enthusiasts who enjoy learning about railways overseas; Australasia or the Americas, Continental Europe, Africa or Asia, they are all included. It’s the best possible read covering all the continents with plenty of modelling features as well as prototype scenes and of course written in the English language therefore giving it great appeal the world over.
