iHobby Exhibition, Chicago From 16th to 19th October 2008, iHobby, an international exhibition of hobby products took place in Chicago. PIKO was represented by its American importer Silvergate Distributors, inc. of San Diego, California. In a prime position between the display areas of model railways and RC models, PIKO models were perfectly presented to the many dealers of the USA and Canada. The new PIKO G StarterSets, that were recently introduced, drew large interest as for the first time, finished models were presented to the American public. To the joy of our many G friends, the new Union Pacific Loco worked effortlessly all show, pulling 2 vehicles of the Mainline series on a small layout. The expert visitors commented on the good quality of the PIKO G tracks and special praise was due as this system has had its first successful summer on many US layouts. In the USA, layouts encounter extreme temperature variations and we can confirm successful operation between 40° during the day and then the much colder nights in Nevada. The statement „Best suited for indoor and outdoor " has never been truer! Dr. René F. Wilfer visited the fair and was able to lead good conversations with many dealers. For the year 2008, one hopes for good PIKO business in the USA. Importantly, the G Scale starter sets will be delivered into the USA at the end of October.

Jonathan Meador, Vice President of Development, Silvergate Distributors, inc., presents proudly the new steam loco from the New York Central starter set.

The stand of Silvergate Distributors, inc. was in a great position so no visitors were able to miss the PIKO presentation.

Interest was nor only directed towards the G scale models from PIKO. The HO start sets are also very successful in the USA, so much so that this year, PIKO even produced a special Christmas Set just for the USA.

In front of the stand, the new PIKO G Loco works tirelessly.

Jonathan Meador, Vice President of Development, Silvergate Distributors, inc., in conversation with a customer.

Tony Castellano, President of Silvergate Distributors, inc. happy with the success of the PIKO brand in the USA.

Mark A. Rocha, Vice President - Sales and marketing, Tony Castellano, President and Jonathan Meador, Vice President of Development, all three from Silvergate Distributors, inc., show the new steam loco with Dr. René F. Wilfer in the press appointment announcing the PIKO G scale starter sets