Tupperware has been around since the 1950s and has gained such popularity that in 1990 overseas sales exceeded $1 billion, more than double in the current economic climate.
In fact, the Tupperware craze was so popular that more than 100 vintage pieces are housed in a museum. It is interesting to note that the company grew to produce products suitable for children such as Tuppertoys, such as the Pop-A-Lot Ball Shooter set.
The origin of Tupperware
Brownie Wise and Earl Tupper had a partnership that didn’t last. But not before the two created and launched Tupperware, one of the most famous housewares brands. Especially between 1960 and 1990, plastics were ubiquitous in most households. But it wasn’t always like that. Tupperware broke boundaries because, before World War II, plastics were almost never found in homes as they were mostly used for military purposes such as insulation and car parts.
Earl Tupper is credited with inventing “Poly-T”, a new type of plastic that eventually found its way into every home. Tupperware was previously considered “too high-tech and unusual”.
As a result, it took some time for her to become known. However, Tupper’s choice to work with Wise to launch a joint venture contributed to the company’s meteoric rise to prominence. Wise started selling his creation at “Party parties”, which were then, for understandable reasons, called Tupperware parties. Her focus on family, comfort, and a more complete home life led to the rapid introduction of Tuppertoys, which are designed to be fun and engaging for children while being made from the same breakthrough plastic.
Tupper eventually sold the business for $16 million despite its success and relocated to the island to live in peace and quiet. But Tupper has already lost his job after being told not to work with women because it would affect his sales. Eventually, Tupper sold the company in 1958 and after letting it go, he awarded Wise about $30,000, but not before Wise sued the board.
favorite Tuppertoys
The Snapics set was one of the first Tuppertoys ever released in 1965, but by then Wise and Tupper had left the company. The Tuppertoy set consisted of a collection of glowing tiles that could be joined together to create a glowing work of art.
Since then, Tupperware has expanded internationally and is still in the toy business.
Specifically, two-color shape sorters. These are the top 7 most nostalgic Tupperware toys ever made that also play a significant role in promoting happy and healthy growth across generations.
1. Construct-O-Fun
Designed to encourage architectural design and improve fine motor skills such as finger dexterity, a redesigned Tuppertoy was introduced in 1969. The Build-O-Fun was made from tires and plastic squares. Building houses, bridges, and even trains can be done by stacking red or blue tiles.
2. Hectic blocks
The original Busy Blocks was a Tuppertoy set, whereas today there are many more on the market with significantly more features in terms of aesthetics and activities. The set contained several colored square blocks that could be assembled and disassembled to create a rainbow of hues.
3. A LOT OF POP
It is not clear exactly when the Pop-A-Lot Ball Shooter was introduced, however it was released in the 1970s. It was recommended to play this fun game with friends and family.
Essentially, the toy would be used to launch a ball into the sky by placing the ball in its center and then hitting it from below.
When nearby players tried to catch the ball in their own toy, they “called it.”
4. Pick-Em-Up-Truck
This charming set of blocks has numbers on them that enhance math skills while encouraging imaginative play and deep exploration. In good condition, vintage sets also sell for about $50.
5. Tuppertoys Bounce It game
The goal of this fun multiplayer game from 1984 is pretty clear. All you have to do is fill as many, if not all, of your opponent’s holes with your ball color to eliminate them. With approximately 20 balls, each participant chooses their favorite color. Everyone takes turns trying to get their balls into the holes, even if it means hitting the opponent’s ball. The game encourages hand-eye coordination and other skills but doesn’t promote team building very much.
6. Tupper Canoe
Although the 1985 Tupper Canoe set retails for about $50, its primary function was to encourage imaginative play. With two little passengers on a charming miniature ship, this wonderful playset allows children to enjoy an adventure “at sea”. Thank goodness the playset was plastic so it could be used in sandboxes, bathtubs, pools, and streams. A version of the Tuppertoy boat is still accessible today on the Tupperware website.
7. Puzzles from Tuppertoys
Fun and educational puzzles like Link-A-Lot and What’s Inside Puzzle were excellent for helping children practice color matching and recognition while also making them develop their problem-solving skills.
Tupperware has undoubtedly produced some groundbreaking home products. They even went one better when they started making Tuppertoys.
Fortunately, some of the Tuppertoys available today are made from recycled and environmentally friendly materials as awareness of the dangers of plastic in the environment has grown. Cutlery and crockery sets are offered for children, although there is a more limited range of toys.
In any case, several older Tuppertoy sets have turned out to be highly prized antiques.
Tupperware’s innovative spirit extended beyond its kitchen products to include a range of engaging and educational toys known as Tuppertoys. From the iconic Snapics set and the versatile Construct-O-Fun to the nostalgic Pop-A-Lot Ball Shooter and the creative Tupper Canoe, these toys not only capture children’s imaginations but also help develop them. Although the company has evolved and the toy manufacturing landscape has changed, Tupperware’s commitment to quality and creativity remains evident. The Tuppertoy legacy continues as vintage sets become prized collectibles, reflecting a bygone era of play. As Tupperware navigates the modern market with eco-friendly products, it maintains the playful and educational ethos that has long been a hallmark of the brand.