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PIKO opens its doors: A look behind the scenes of a global player

With insights into production, a large family program, special sales and an attractive raffle, the “Tag der Offenen Tür” at PIKO in Sonneberg becomes a special experience for the entire region.

Sonneberg, April 2026 – When PIKO opens its doors on June 20, 2026, Sonneberg will once again become a meeting point for thousands of visitors from around the world. The “Tag der Offenen Tür” is one of the largest single events in southern Thuringia and offers an extraordinary experience for families, technology enthusiasts and model railway fans from 09:00 to 17:00 – with exclusive insights into production, numerous hands-on activities and special highlights from the world of model railways.

In the production area for garden railway models (G scale), visitors can experience firsthand how a finished model is created from individual components. From plastic injection molding through various surface finishing processes – such as painting, digital printing and pad printing – to assembly and final testing, the entire production process becomes visible step by step. It becomes clear how much precision, experience and technical expertise go into every single model. A special highlight: at selected stations, visitors have the opportunity to take a model directly from ongoing production – an experience only possible at PIKO.

Outside the production area, visitors can also expect a true discovery experience: in various sales areas, PIKO presents first- and second-quality models as well as special rarities from past decades – including items that are hardly available anymore. Bargain hunters will find numerous attractive opportunities to purchase high-quality models at special conditions. For many visitors, this area becomes a treasure trove for exceptional collector’s items and unique souvenirs. A dedicated starter set area is specifically aimed at beginners and makes entry into the world of model railways particularly easy and tangible. This creates a diverse and varied offering that delights, surprises and invites visitors to take something home.

For families and children, the “Tag der Offenen Tür” becomes a special experience: bouncy castles, activity courses, soap bubbles and numerous hands-on stations provide fun and variety throughout the day. At several stations, both young and old visitors can get actively involved and discover the world of model railways in a playful way.

On two spacious play areas, young train drivers have the opportunity to control trains themselves and send them on big journeys. Those who want to get creative can design their own model railway wagon and take home a very personal souvenir. This turns the visit into a shared experience for many families that goes far beyond a classic outing.

Another highlight is the individual printing service: visitors have the opportunity to customize selected models with their own photos, designs or personal messages – creating a truly unique item

A particular crowd-puller is the large raffle with attractive prizes totaling €50,000 – from high-quality model railway sets to exclusive surprises.

The official opening will take place at 09:30. In addition to Thuringia’s Minister President Mario Voigt, Rainer Landwehr, CEO of PIKO Spielwaren GmbH, and PIKO shareholder Dr. René F. Wilfer will welcome guests and address the audience.

“The ‘Tag der Offenen Tür’ is much more than just an event for us – it is a place of encounter and enthusiasm,” says Rainer Landwehr. “We want to show what PIKO stands for and spend a memorable day together with our guests.” Dr. René F. Wilfer also emphasizes the special importance of the event: “It is always impressive to see how people of all ages come together here, discover new things and share their passion for model railways.”

With the “Tag der Offenen Tür,” PIKO sets a clear example for the region: as the largest single event in southern Thuringia, Sonneberg becomes a central meeting point for visitors from all over Germany and neighboring countries.

At the same time, the event represents the close connection between tradition, innovative strength and international orientation. Visitors not only experience an extraordinary event, but also the capabilities of a globally successful company directly at its Thuringia site – and thus the strength of an entire region

Travel to the event is also conveniently organized: in addition to extensive parking facilities – including for motorhomes and caravans – a shuttle service from Sonneberg main station is available. Guests from the Nuremberg metropolitan region also benefit from the extended validity of the VGN ticket to Sonneberg.

Anyone who registers their visit online in advance at www.piko.de/TOFT helps with planning and also secures a free raffle ticket.

With its diverse program, exclusive insights and unique atmosphere, the “Tag der Offenen Tür” becomes an experience that inspires visitors and leaves a lasting impression – and clearly demonstrates why PIKO is one of the leading manufacturers in the industry worldwide.