The Maxitrak story began with a single loco.
Maxitrak was founded in 1978 by two friends, Andy Probyn and Bill Bridges.
The first product was Simplicity, a five inch gauge battery diesel locomotive. This was the first model of this type available to the public and set the scene for a series of innovations in model engineering continuing through to today.
We lay claim to the first commercial diesel models in 5" and 7 1/4" gauges, followerd by the first kit build steam locomotives and traction engines, with over eighty different designs made over
the years.
Enthusiasm and vision
Andy provided the design and engineering knowledge while Bill had the paint and finishing skills along with those required to run a small business.
Production soon outpaced our capacity at West Malling and so we moved to a new industrial unit in Staplehurst, with room for extra staff on the manufacturing side. At this time Andy's son Alex joined the company, first in the paint shop taking over from Bill when he retired, and then moving on to
run the company with the help of his sister Michelle. Maxitrak have acquired a number of other companies over the years, Maidstone Engineering Supplies was the first, offering materials, tools, fixing etc for all sorts of model engineering needs. This was followed more recently by Accucraft UK, a company with its own interesting history.
Accucraft UK was formed in 2004 by Ian and Sandy Pearse, incorporating designs form Ian's fathers company Marches Models. They went on to offer a range of live steam and electric models in the smaller 32 and 45mm gauges (gauge 0 and gauge 1) along with a range of rolling stock to acompany them. These were manufactured by Accucraft Trains in China.
Maxitrak has also had many of its products made by Accucraft over the last twenty odd years so when Ian wanted to retire it seemed natural for Maxitrak to acquire Accucraft UK. This has led to Maxitrak offering a new range of smaller models in 32 and 45mm gauges including a range of UK built battery powered diesel locomotives and rolling stock of our own design. This
means we now offer what must be the widest range of road and rail models from commercial park railways to down to scenic garden lines.
Details of all the products can be found by Click the button to below see our full range of Models.
The Maxitrak Owners Club
All customers have the opportunity to join the Maxitrak Owners’ Club. These are a group of enthusiastic and knowledgeable Maxitrak locomotive owners who have joined together to share a common interest. A quarterly newsletter and annual rally are arranged by the club to which all owners are encouraged to contribute and participate in.
Every new Maxitrak Locomotive owner enjoys complementary membership for the first year.
For more information email info@maxitrax.com
