Hornby set to coin it in from deal

Hornby, the model train-maker that also owns the Scalextric and Airfix brands, has joined forces with the Royal Mint in a deal to distribute a range of London 2012 coins.

The toy firm, which already has the rights to sell its own line-up of Olympics-based products, hopes the agreement will lead to a longer-term partnership. It plans to distribute the Royal Mint's range of 2012 collectable sports coins through concessions as well as general retail and mass market outlets.

News of the tie-up came yesterday as Hornby said interim pre-tax profits fell to 700,000 from 1 million. Turnover increased 2 per cent to 25.5m.