I'm sure this has been asked numerous numbers of times but I can't find anything on this on the interwebs. For you members from Europe or who have lived in Europe for an extended period of time, how popular is model building in Europe? I know that the various model shows held across the continent and Britain are some of the largest in the world but that's also international.

Well... In Sweden i'd say model hobby is pretty popular. The recent "MJ-hobbymässan" (hobby fair) sold out one of the largest convention centers in stockholm and the lines were loooooong.

That however was focused on RC and trains mostly. Plastic kits seems to, sadly, not be as popular. It's hard to tell though as it seems to be one of those hobbies people don't really advertise. For example at my work we thought we were two lonely enthusiasts until I started this facebook-group and suddenly found 5 more builders

Mikey,
I lived in Europe for a couple of years, and I my observation was that it was very popular. Our little tiny NATO base had a pretty small population, but nevertheless a thriving modeling club--and those guys were serious. Plenty of modeling shows to go to, as well.