Steiff

The Margaret Steiff Company is one of the leading manufacturers of soft toys in the world. The story of Steiff soft toys started in 1877, when Margarete Steiff made and sold garments and household articles in a newly formed ready-to-wear felt clothing establishment. Established in 1880, the first Steiff soft-filled fabric toy animal was an elephant made of felt. Meant to be used as a pincushion, it soon became extremely popular among children. By 1886, other soft-filled animals were added to its product range. With the success of the Steiff animal, it soon became a family run business, later joined by her brother Fritz Steiff and nephew Richard Steiff.

In 1902, the company introduced their first plush animal: the Steiff Teddy bear. With the invention of the teddy bear, the company grew exponentially. By 1904, the "KNOPF IM OHR" - "BUTTON IN EAR" was released with the aim of distinguishing the company from other manufacturers.

Today, the "Button in Ear" is one of the best selling Steiff toys that represents Margaret's philosophy of providing high-quality toys for children. The popularity of the Steiff soft toys has given rise to the Steiff Club in 1992. The Steiff toy, Steiff animal and Steiff teddies have become a collector’s item among people who have grown up with the Steiff toys. Lately, the company offers a wide array of soft toys, and numerous limited edition toys specific to shops, countries and organisations.