The Lauri Story

The Birth of a Toy Company
The first Lauri product, Fit-a-Space, was created in 1961 in Haverhill, Massachusetts by a retired school teacher. She knew she wanted to develop an innovative teaching aid that would also be fun, but the challenge was how.

The solution was right under her nose. More accurately, it was right under her feet! She and her husband owned a small shoe shop, and they discovered they could die-cut the Crepe Rubber used for slipper soles to make a small puzzle. Fit-a-Space was a huge success, and it was the genesis of a new toy company, Lauri Enterprises (as it was known in the early days).
In 1968 the company moved to Avon, a small community nestled in the western foothills of Maine. An abandoned gas station converted into a factory served as the first Maine manufacturing facility for Lauri.

During the next seven years, Lauri manufactured products primarily for schools. Teachers were delighted with the revolutionary new Lauri teaching aids (often called manipulatives in their profession). In 1970 Lauri developed the first Crepe Rubber picture puzzles. Teachers loved the 'logical piece' concept; each one a single, solid color representing a specific shape. These puzzles became classics, first winning national recognition in 1977, and is still earning awards.

Pennsylvania became their New Home in 2003 when the company was purchased by Smethport Specialty Company of Smethport, Pennsylvania. The entire Lauri operation moved from Avon, Maine to Smethport, Pennsylvania. Improvements were made to the factory in Smethport to accommodate the necessary materials and machines to produce Lauri toys.

In the Summer of 2008 Lauri became part of the Patch family. A company that prides itself in being a leading international toy company, recognized as such by their innovative products, stable financial foundation, high caliber employees, and commitment to those with whom they do business. Located in Beloit, WI, they pride themselves on the fact that all of our coloring and activity books, a majority of our
puzzles and select games are made in the United States. In all, 80 percent of the units they sell are manufactured in this country. Their mission at Patch is to produce the highest quality, family-friendly products on the market, and you can count on them to assure that safety requirements are followed before the Patch Products logo is added to the package.

Products
Lauri® teaching toys are superior in developing eye-hand coordination and fine motor control. In the beginning they were used only in schools, but now they are as likely to be used in a living room as they are in a classroom. Lauri® carries something for all ages 2 years and up.

Colourful crepe rubber puzzles, and sorters. The toddler tote is perfect for early learners. It stands out with a variety of activities. Original Lauri® crepe rubber puzzles present vital developmental tools in bright, soft and washable puzzles. Kids feel special achievement when each piece fits snugly. Lauri® crepe rubber puzzles are colorful, durable rubber that will not warp, crease or tear. The textures simply feel good, they are washable and quiet too! These puzzles can be used on the table top or the on the floor. They will also last from child to child.

The 8 ¼” x 11 ½” puzzles are designed with children 3-6 yrs in mind. The big puzzle measures measure 11 ½” x 17”, and is designed for older children, 5 yrs and up. Both sizes come with assembly pattern and storage tray.

Pegging activities build math skills while they develop fine motor control and kids love them. 2 yrs and up.

People and Services
Dedication to customer service is a key to long-term success. Live voices answer your phone calls -- real people who can answer your questions about Lauri toys and the famous replacement piece service.

The replacement piece service is rated #1 by teachers and parents. Obtaining the replacement for a lost piece is immensely valuable. And customers applaud the 'no back-order' policy too. Shipping complete orders within 48 hours is no easy task, but skilled, dedicated employees make it happen.

Lauri products are made in the USA.