The Testor Corporation Celebrates 80 Years

As Hobby Industry Leader With Exciting New Directions

March 2, 2009 – 2009 marks the 80-year anniversary for The Testor Corporation. Founded in 1929 by Swedish immigrant Nils Testor, the company’s humble beginning was as a glue manufacturer.  Years of persistent commitment to quality, value, innovation and excellence have made Testors the world leader in hobby finishing products.  Through all these years of change, one thing has remained constant, Testors proudly manufacturing products in the USA in  Rockford, Illinois.

In its 80th year, Testor is leveraging it historic hobby-business strengths to expand into the Craft and Creative Learning categories.

“We at Testor Corporation are entering a new chapter in our 80-year history as we expand our superior product into the craft and creative play categories while maintaining our commitment to the hobby category,” company President Charlie Leichtweis notes. “We are building on our 80 year heritage and now more than ever we are focusing on our customers needs as we are launching exciting new initiatives to meet their needs.”

Recent successful introductions of Quick-Build model kit activity sets have expanded both the Testor consumer and distribution channel base.  These all inclusive activity sets include paint, brushes, decals, and feature desired radical sports cars and popular historic military planes.  Minimal parts and simple “press fit” assembly allow successful completion for a range of users from novice to the skilled modeler.

Additional key initiatives included pioneering a new one coat aerosol lacquer formulation for plastic models that gives a luxurious finish in one easy step, and an innovative new product line of consumer items for craft and home decoration activities that features a unique easy to use airbrush system.  The airbrush system enables the crafter to complete a multitude of projects on a variety of materials.

The company’s impressive brand portfolio includes Testors® (the #1 brand in the Hobby Category) ModelMaster™, POLLY Scale™, Acryl®, Metalizer™, Floquil®, Pactra®, Aztek® and ColorArtz®*.  (Testors® and ModelMaster™ are consistently ranked #1 in consumer surveys.)

For the past 80-years and today, discriminating enthusiasts trust Testors® products for superb finishes on models, crafts, figures, structures, and scenery.  Mr. Leichtweis invites everyone to “Come join us in celebrating the remarkable made in America success story that is the Testor Corporation!"

If the past is any indication, success will continue characterizing Testor Corporation's future.

For more information, visit www.testors.com or contact The Testor Corporation, Rockford, IL. 61104, USA.  Tel.: 1-800-435-2942.