We have developed KPS ([Kyouka] = reinforced, [PS] = polystyrene), a new plastic material boasting excellent strength and durability. Typically used in plastic models, KPS is tough yet flexible, and is paintable as well as recyclable. Before the development of KPS, scraps of ABS resin were separated from other materials, and disposed of as industrial waste. However, KPS can now be recycled together with other PS scraps from the factory. The amount of KPS used as an ingredient is increasing annually, and is expected to reach approximately 2,160 tons in fiscal 2030. Plastic models made from recycled plastic are available at the Bandai Hobby Center and THE GUNDAM BASE, under the name “ECOPLA”

BANDAI SPIRITS will continue to develop next-generation plastics.

Multi-color molding is a technology developed by BANDAI SPIRITS, which enables the molding of up to four different materials in up to four colors at the same time.

The multi-color molding machine has revolutionized plastic models, making it easy to assemble them for great results. It also contributes to reducing two major environmental impacts.

Each of the latest model of electric multi-color molding machines requires 60% less power annually when compared to the first model.

Compared to when multi-color molding machines were not used, the consumption of material resources has been reduced by approximately 24 tons (in fiscal 2019).

While still maintaining product quality, various efforts are being made to minimize the amount of plastic materials used for the “runner”; the frame surrounding the various parts that will be left after the plastic model is assembled.

In pursuit of design ingenuity, we are making efforts such as making the runner diameter as small as possible, and omitting the outer frame runner.

In fiscal 2019, we made the runner identification badge smaller to reduce the amount of raw materials, while enhancing its visibility through deeper mold engraving.

This improvement of identification badges has reduced the annual consumption of plastic by approximately 70 tons.

At the Bandai Hobby Center, we thoroughly analyze the plastic resin flows. Based on the analysis results, our expert craftsmen produced molds for improved runner designs.

We have introduced the Meister System at the Bandai Hobby Center, to ensure that future generations inherit the skills of our expert craftsmen who have valuable techniques for plastic model production.

The title of Meister is awarded to employees with undisputedly outstanding techniques who are eager to improve their own expert knowledge and skills, and are also willing to train and mentor their successors. This is to motivate the employees to improve together, as well as to offer our customers superior quality products.

At the Bandai Hobby Center, we host factory tours mainly for children from local elementary, junior high, and high schools.

As well as the production process for plastic models, the visitors can also learn about the environmental initiatives we are taking to become a green factory.

In addition, as part of the “Hobby City Shizuoka” project which promotes creative education, we offer on-site classes at elementary schools in Shizuoka prefecture.

Our employees explain the processes involved in the planning, development and production of plastic models, and then assemble plastic models with the students, in order to familiarize them with the manufacturing at BANDAI SPIRITS, and thus increase their interest in local industries.

* While construction work is ongoing at the premises, factory tours at the Bandai Hobby Center are not currently available for safety reasons. Updated information is provided on the Bandai Hobby Center official website.