MMA-OtherBrands-RacingChampions

Key Dates:
1989 : Racing Champions is founded.

1996: Company introduces a line of custom and classic vehicle collectible die-cast models.

1998: Company produces a new line of die-cast replicas to be sold exclusively through hobby shops; Wheels Sports Group, Inc., is acquired and renamed Racing Champions South, Inc.

1999: The Ertl Company is acquired and renamed Racing Champions Ertl, Inc.

Company History:
Racing Champions Corporation is one of the largest die-cast collectible companies in North America, a position it reached in 1999 when it acquired The Ertl Company, which had over 50 year's experience in making farm toys, model kits, and die-cast collectibles. Through its various subsidiaries, the Racing Champions holding company produces such popular brands in die-cast collecting as Ertl Preschool, American Muscle, Agriculture and Construction, AMT Model Kits, Racing Champions, Press Pass, and Wm. Britains. The key to Racing Champions' success has been quality, attention to detail, and licensing agreements, most notably from the National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR). (Source: http://www.fundinguniverse.com/company-histories/racing-champions-corporation-history/)