The puzzles making industry focuses on creating a variety of engaging entertainment options that challenge and stimulate the mind. Companies in this field produce everything from jigsaw puzzles to mechanical puzzles, catering to a wide range of consumers, from children to adults. Increased interest in at-home activities has fostered growth, leading to innovations such as customized puzzles and subscription services. Sustainability has emerged, with many companies prioritizing eco-friendly materials. As the demand for puzzles approaches all-time highs, businesses are exploring online channels and global markets to enhance accessibility and reach.

This list highlights 25 companies in the puzzles making sector, varying in size from small collaborations to larger corporate entities. Their headquarters span locations such as the USA, UK, Poland, and beyond, with founding years ranging from 1907 to 2014. Each company brings unique specializations, producing anything from traditional wooden puzzles to modern mechanical options, meeting the needs of franchise fans and casual puzzlers alike. With a mix of family-owned establishments and private equity-backed firms, the industry reflects both legacy and innovation.

Continue reading to uncover the top puzzles making companies.

Top 25 Puzzles Making Companies

1. Buffalo Games

• Website: buffalogames.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Buffalo, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 97%, China 3%
• Latest funding: October 2018
• Founded year: 1986
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: buffalo-games-inc-

Buffalo Games, based in Buffalo, New York, specializes in the design and manufacturing of jigsaw puzzles and games. Since its inception in 1986, the company has focused on creating engaging entertainment options for all ages. Buffalo Games is known for its extensive collection of puzzles, which includes various piece counts and themes, appealing to both casual puzzlers and enthusiasts. The company collaborates with renowned artists and licenses popular franchises, ensuring a wide array of choices for consumers. Their business model includes direct-to-consumer sales through their online store and subscription services for regular puzzle deliveries, reflecting their innovative approach to customer engagement. With a dedicated workforce of around 108 employees, Buffalo Games continues to thrive in the competitive puzzle industry.

2. Gibsons

• Website: gibsonsgames.co.uk
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Sutton, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 50%, India 50%
• Founded year: 1919
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: gibsons

Gibsons is a private toy manufacturer and game retailer based in Sutton, England, specializing in jigsaw puzzles and family games. Founded in 1919, the company has a long history in the industry, focusing on creating products that promote leisure and family bonding. Gibsons offers a wide array of jigsaw puzzles, including options for children and adults, with varying piece counts and themes such as Christmas, British culture, and animals. Their puzzles are made in the UK and Europe, utilizing high-quality materials, including the thickest puzzle board available. The company also emphasizes sustainability, using 100% recycled cardboard for their products. Gibsons operates an online store where customers can purchase their puzzles and games directly, and they have a subscription service for jigsaw puzzles. Their B Corp certification reflects their commitment to social and environmental responsibility, further solidifying their position in the puzzle-making industry.

3. Melissa & Doug

• Website: melissaanddoug.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Wilton, Connecticut, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 88%, United Kingdom (UK) 6%, China 6%
• Latest funding: $950.0M, October 2023
• Founded year: 1988
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: melissa-%26-doug

Melissa & Doug, LLC is a toy manufacturer based in Wilton, Connecticut, founded in 1988. The company specializes in creating high-quality children's toys, with a significant emphasis on wooden puzzles, arts and crafts, and educational products. Their offerings are designed to promote learning and creativity among children, targeting parents and caregivers who value quality and imaginative play. Melissa & Doug has built a reputation as a trusted brand in the toy industry, particularly noted for their puzzles, which are marketed as the '#1 Children's Puzzle Brand.' The company operates through its online store and various retail partners, ensuring broad accessibility to their products. Recently, they secured a substantial funding amount of $950 million in October 2023, which underscores their ongoing relevance and potential for growth in the toy market.

4. Ceaco

• Website: ceaco.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Newton, Massachusetts, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1987
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: ceaco

Ceaco, based in Newton, Massachusetts, specializes in the design and manufacturing of jigsaw puzzles and games. Since its inception in 1987, the company has focused on creating high-quality and innovative products that provide hours of entertainment for families and individuals. Ceaco collaborates with renowned artists to produce visually appealing puzzles, ensuring a blend of creativity and challenge. Their product range includes puzzles of various piece counts and themes, catering to different age groups and preferences. Ceaco also operates an online store, allowing customers to purchase directly, while their products are available at thousands of retail locations across the United States and Canada. This extensive reach underscores their commitment to being a significant player in the puzzle-making industry.

5. Professor Puzzle Ltd

• Website: professorpuzzle.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Twickenham, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 97%, United States (USA) 3%
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: professor-puzzle

Professor Puzzle Ltd, based in Twickenham, England, is a private company that specializes in the design and manufacture of a wide array of puzzles and games. Established in 2002, the company has carved out a niche in the entertainment industry, focusing on products that challenge the mind and provide enjoyment. Their offerings include various types of puzzles, brain training activities, and outdoor games, catering to families and puzzle enthusiasts alike. With a workforce of approximately 68 employees, the company primarily serves the UK market, with a small presence in the United States. Professor Puzzle Ltd operates mainly through online retail, ensuring direct access to their innovative products. Their collections, such as the Great Minds and Einstein series, reflect a thoughtful approach to puzzle design, often intertwining educational elements with entertainment. The company is also committed to sustainability, actively working to incorporate eco-friendly practices into their operations.

6. Trefl S.A.

• Website: trefl.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Gdynia, Pomeranian Voivodeship, Poland
• Employee distribution: Poland 98%, Other 2%
• Founded year: 1985
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: trefl-s-a-

Trefl S.A., based in Gdynia, Poland, is a private toy manufacturer and retailer that has been operational since 1985. The company specializes in puzzles, games, and toys aimed at children and adults alike. Trefl's product offerings include a wide variety of puzzles, from simple designs for young children to complex ones for adults, catering to different skill levels and interests. They also produce educational games and toys that promote learning and creativity. Trefl has established partnerships with major licensing brands, including Disney and Hasbro, which enhances their product appeal. The company operates primarily in Poland, with a small percentage of its business extending internationally. Their online store facilitates easy access to their products, reflecting their commitment to customer service and market reach.

7. Liberty Puzzles

• Website: libertypuzzles.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Boulder, Colorado, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: liberty-puzzles

Liberty Puzzles, based in Boulder, Colorado, is a private company that has been crafting wooden jigsaw puzzles since its inception in 2005. With a workforce of approximately 48 employees, the company has carved out a niche in the puzzle industry by offering high-quality, intricately designed puzzles that appeal to both casual and serious puzzlers. Their product range includes not only standard puzzles but also custom options, allowing customers to create personalized puzzles from their own images. Liberty Puzzles emphasizes craftsmanship, featuring whimsical pieces that add a unique touch to their products. The company operates primarily through its online store, catering to a global audience. Their commitment to customer satisfaction is highlighted by services such as piece replacement, ensuring that every puzzle can be completed, even if a piece is lost. This focus on quality and customer care positions Liberty Puzzles as a relevant player in the puzzle-making industry.

8. MasterPieces Puzzle Company

• Website: masterpiecesinc.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Oro Valley, Arizona, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1995
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: masterpieces-puzzle-company

MasterPieces Puzzle Company, based in Oro Valley, Arizona, is a family-owned business that specializes in jigsaw puzzles and games. Established in 1995, the company has grown to employ around 37 individuals. They offer a wide array of products, including puzzles for all ages, craft kits, and various games, making them a go-to source for family entertainment. MasterPieces is dedicated to producing high-quality products, utilizing recycled paper and soy-based inks in their manufacturing process. Their product line features over 2000 items, showcasing their ability to cater to different interests and skill levels. The company has also formed partnerships with notable brands, enhancing their product offerings and market reach. Their commitment to customer satisfaction is reflected in their positive reviews and customer loyalty.

9. Ugears

• Website: ugearsmodels.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine
• Employee distribution: Ukraine 81%, Latvia 19%
• Latest funding: Crowdfunding, $300,000, August 2017
• Founded year: 2014
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: ugears

Ugears, established in 2014 and based in Kyiv, Ukraine, is a manufacturer of mechanical wooden puzzles and educational toys. The company specializes in creating intricate 3D models that require no glue for assembly, allowing users to engage with the mechanics of their designs. Ugears offers a wide range of products, including themed puzzles like Harry Potter™ and various STEM Lab kits, catering to different age groups and skill levels. Their models are crafted from high-quality plywood and come with detailed instructions in multiple languages. Ugears has gained international recognition and operates an online store that ships globally. The company raised $300,000 through crowdfunding in 2017, reflecting strong consumer interest in their innovative approach to puzzles. Ugears aims to foster creativity and learning through hands-on projects, making their products appealing for family bonding and educational purposes.

10. eeBoo

• Website: eeboo.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: New York, New York, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1995
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: eeboo

eeBoo, based in New York City, is a private company that specializes in the manufacture of high-quality puzzles, games, and art materials. Founded in 1995, eeBoo has carved out a niche in the educational toy market, focusing on products that promote creativity, learning, and social interaction. Their puzzles range from simple 20-piece options for young children to complex 1000-piece designs for older enthusiasts. The company prides itself on its commitment to beautiful design and educational value, aiming to foster independent problem-solving skills in children. With a workforce of 26 employees, eeBoo operates entirely within the United States, emphasizing a strong local presence. Their products are well-regarded for their quality and aesthetic appeal, making them a popular choice among families and educators alike.

11. Schmidt Spiele GmbH

• Website: schmidtspiele.de
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Berlin, Berlin, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 86%, France 14%
• Founded year: 1907
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: schmidt-spiele-gmbh

Schmidt Spiele GmbH, based in Berlin, Germany, is a private game and toy manufacturer that has been operational since 1907. The company is known for its extensive range of products, which includes games, puzzles, and wooden toys. Schmidt Spiele caters to families and individuals looking for entertainment and leisure activities. Their product line features a variety of puzzles, including adult puzzles with themes from popular culture, such as Disney characters. The company emphasizes quality and fun, ensuring that their products appeal to a broad audience. With a workforce of around 21 employees, Schmidt Spiele maintains a strong presence in Germany and has a growing footprint in France. Their dedication to innovation is evident in their annual release of new products, which keeps their offerings fresh and engaging for consumers.

12. Tactic Games Oy

• Website: tactic.net
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Pori, Satakunta, Finland
• Founded year: 1967
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: tactic-games-nelostuote-ltd

Tactic Games Oy, founded in 1967 and based in Pori, Satakunta, Finland, is a private toy manufacturer and retailer. The company employs between 51 to 200 people and specializes in creating a variety of products, including puzzles, games, and building sets aimed at children and families. Tactic Games is dedicated to providing engaging and educational toys that foster creativity and play. Their product range is designed to cater to consumers seeking quality and innovative toys, and they operate an online store for direct sales. Tactic Games Oy has established a reputation for its commitment to quality and creativity in the toy industry, making it a notable player in the puzzles segment.

13. Parragon

• Website: parragon.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: New Zealand
• Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 55%, India 18%, Australia 18%, Other 10%
• Founded year: 1988
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: parragon

Parragon is a private toy manufacturer based in New Zealand, founded in 1988. The company employs around 85 people and has a significant presence in the toy industry, particularly in the production of puzzles and games aimed at children and families. Their product range includes themed puzzles, educational games, and various formats such as floor puzzles and glow-in-the-dark options. Parragon emphasizes quality, ensuring that their puzzles meet safety standards and are made from recycled materials and non-toxic inks. The company operates primarily through direct sales to consumers via their online store, showcasing their commitment to providing engaging and educational entertainment. With a workforce distributed across the UK, India, Australia, and the USA, Parragon maintains a global reach in the toy market.

14. Puzzler Media Ltd

• Website: puzzler.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Reigate, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 100%
• Founded year: 1972
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: puzzler-media-ltd

Puzzler Media Ltd, based in Reigate, England, has been a significant player in the puzzle publishing industry since its founding in 1972. The company offers a variety of puzzle magazines, apps, and games, targeting puzzle enthusiasts and families alike. Their product lineup includes subscriptions to magazines that feature crosswords, Sudoku, word searches, and logic puzzles, among others. Puzzler Media also runs competitions and provides online puzzles, enhancing engagement with their audience. Their commitment to accessibility is evident through their various sales channels, including subscriptions and online platforms. With a dedicated workforce of around 34 employees, Puzzler Media continues to thrive in the competitive puzzle market, demonstrating a sustained relevance and passion for puzzles.

15. Dowdle Folk Art

• Website: dowdlefolkart.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Lindon, Utah, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: dowdle-folk-art

Dowdle Folk Art, based in Lindon, Utah, is a private company founded in 1998. It operates primarily through its brand, Boardwalk Puzzles, which specializes in jigsaw puzzles and related accessories. The company offers a wide array of products, including traditional puzzles, personal puzzles, and themed puzzles, catering to consumers seeking entertainment and leisure activities. Dowdle Folk Art has carved out a niche in the puzzle industry with its unique artistic designs, including collaborations with Disney, which enhance its appeal to a broad audience. The company also provides options for custom puzzles, allowing customers to create personalized experiences. With a workforce of 11-50 employees, Dowdle Folk Art maintains an active online store, facilitating convenient purchases for customers. Their commitment to quality and creativity in puzzle design positions them as a notable player in the puzzle-making sector.

16. CustomPax Holdings Ltd

• Website: custompax.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Sunnyvale, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Singapore 100%
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: propnex

CustomPax Holdings Ltd, founded in 2005 and based in Sunnyvale, California, is a private retail company that specializes in wooden jigsaw puzzles and related products. The company offers a variety of themed puzzles, including options for customization, appealing to consumers looking for unique gifts and entertainment. Their online store facilitates direct purchases, enhancing customer convenience. With a workforce of 11-50 employees, CustomPax is actively engaged in the puzzle-making industry, focusing on quality and creativity in their product offerings. The company has not reported any funding, indicating a self-sustained operational model.

17. Penny Publications, LLC

• Website: pennydellpuzzles.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Norwalk, Connecticut, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: penny-publications

Penny Publications, LLC, based in Norwalk, Connecticut, is a family-owned business that has been a significant contributor to the puzzle publishing industry since its founding in 1999. The company operates under the brand name Penny Dell Puzzles, offering a wide range of products that cater to puzzle enthusiasts. Their offerings include crosswords, sudoku, fill-ins, and coloring books, all designed to provide entertainment and mental challenges. With a focus on quality and customer satisfaction, Penny Publications has built a loyal customer base. They publish over 85 magazines and more than 60 different puzzle books, available through various channels including their online store. The company emphasizes the importance of customer feedback, which informs their product development and service improvements. This customer-centric approach, combined with their extensive product range, solidifies their position in the puzzle publishing market.

18. KD Group

• Website: group-kd.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: El Cogul, Catalonia, Spain
• Employee distribution: France 50%, Germany 25%, Spain 25%
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: kd-group-of-companies

KD Group, also known as Jumbo Group, is a private toy manufacturer based in El Cogul, Catalonia, Spain. Founded in 1996, the company has grown to employ around 65 people, with a significant presence in France, Germany, and Spain. Jumbo Group specializes in creating engaging products that include puzzles, games, and craft kits, targeting families and consumers looking for educational and entertaining options. Their extensive puzzle collection features products for various age groups, including adult puzzles and children's puzzles, as well as accessories. The company operates primarily through direct sales via their online store, ensuring accessibility to their products across multiple regions, including Belgium, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. With a focus on quality and innovation, KD Group continues to be an active participant in the toy and puzzle industry.

19. The Op Games

• Website: theop.games
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Carlsbad, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1994
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: usaopoly

The Op Games, also known as usaopoly, is a private company based in Carlsbad, California, founded in 1994. Specializing in board games and puzzles, The Op Games has carved out a niche in the entertainment industry by offering a wide array of products that appeal to consumers looking for engaging social activities. Their online store facilitates easy access to their offerings, which include puzzles and games tied to popular franchises such as Monopoly, Clue, and Disney. The company employs between 11 to 50 people, indicating a small to medium-sized operation. Their focus on puzzles, alongside their partnerships with well-known brands, positions them as a relevant player in the puzzle-making sector.

20. Nilco Int.

• Website: nilco-int.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Cairo, Cairo Governorate, Egypt
• Employee distribution: Egypt 100%
• Founded year: 1987
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: nilco-int

Nilco Int. is a private game and toy manufacturer established in 1987, located in Cairo, Egypt. The company specializes in a wide array of games and puzzles, catering to consumers seeking both entertainment and educational products. Their offerings include seasonal games, board games, card games, and puzzles, all designed to enhance social interaction and learning experiences. Nilco operates an online store, allowing customers to purchase their products directly. The company emphasizes quality and customer satisfaction, aiming to create enjoyable experiences that bring families and friends together. With a workforce of around 37 employees, Nilco Int. is positioned as a notable player in the Middle Eastern games and puzzles market, focusing on innovative and engaging products.

21. Tcg Toys

• Website: tcgtoys.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
• Employee distribution: Canada 100%
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: the-canadian-group

TCG Toys, founded in 1998 and based in Toronto, Ontario, is a private toy manufacturer and online retailer. The company specializes in a wide range of games and puzzles, catering to consumers of all ages. TCG Toys is particularly known for its Sure-Lox brand, which focuses on high-quality puzzles designed for family entertainment. Their product line includes puzzles for both children and adults, emphasizing educational and recreational value. TCG Toys has established partnerships with well-known brands, reintroducing beloved characters and themes into their puzzle offerings. This strategic approach not only enhances their product appeal but also positions them as a relevant player in the toy and puzzle industry.

22. Grow Jogos e Brinquedos Ltda

• Website: grow.com.br
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Vila Nova York, Sao Paulo, Brazil
• Employee distribution: Brazil 100%
• Founded year: 1972
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: grow-jogos-e-brinquedos-ltda

Grow Jogos e Brinquedos Ltda, founded in 1972 and based in Vila Nova York, São Paulo, Brazil, specializes in the retail of games and toys, with a significant emphasis on puzzles. The company offers a variety of puzzles, catering to different age groups and skill levels, including mini puzzles, standard puzzles ranging from 500 to 6000 pieces, and special format puzzles. Their product line also includes educational games and kits, reflecting a commitment to providing engaging and educational entertainment options for families. Operating primarily through their online store, Grow Jogos e Brinquedos Ltda ensures direct access to their products, enhancing customer convenience. The company has maintained a consistent presence in the market, focusing on quality and customer satisfaction without any reported external funding, indicating a self-sustaining business model.

23. Keesing Media Group B.V.

• Website: keesing.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands
• Employee distribution: Netherlands 59%, France 11%, Sweden 8%, Other 23%
• Latest funding: February 2021
• Founded year: 1911
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: keesing

Keesing Media Group B.V., based in Amsterdam, is a prominent player in the puzzle and game industry. Established in 1911 by journalist Isaäc Keesing, the company has transformed from its origins in publishing financial archives to becoming a significant publisher of puzzles and games. Keesing specializes in creating engaging content that stimulates mental activity, offering a wide array of printed and digital products. Their portfolio includes popular brands like Denksport, Megastar, and De Puzzelaar, which cater to various audiences across multiple countries. Keesing's commitment to innovation is evident in their adaptation to digital platforms, ensuring they remain relevant in a rapidly changing market. With a workforce of over 300 employees, Keesing continues to expand its reach, producing millions of puzzles annually and serving a global customer base.

24. Fat Brain Toys

• Website: fatbraintoys.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Omaha, Nebraska, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: October 2020
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: fat-brain-toys

Fat Brain Toys, founded in 2002 and based in Omaha, Nebraska, is a toy retailer and manufacturer that specializes in educational and learning toys. The company is dedicated to designing and developing innovative toys that foster creativity and learning among children. With a workforce of 51-200 employees, Fat Brain Toys operates primarily through its online store, catering to parents and educators seeking high-quality toys. Their product range includes a variety of puzzles and brainteasers, which they design and manufacture themselves, ensuring a unique selection that is not easily found elsewhere. The company has built a reputation for quality and creativity, making it a trusted source for educational toys.

25. Games World Au

• Website: gamesworld.com.au
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Perth, Western Australia, Australia
• Employee distribution: Australia 100%
• Founded year: 1989
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: games-world-au

Games World Au, based in Perth, Western Australia, has been a prominent player in the games and hobby products sector since its founding in 1989. The company operates as a private retail entity, employing between 51 to 200 staff members. Games World Au specializes in a variety of entertainment products, including board games, trading cards, collectibles, and notably, jigsaw puzzles. Their online platform offers a convenient shopping experience for consumers seeking leisure activities. The company features a wide array of jigsaw puzzles from well-known brands, catering to different preferences and skill levels. This focus on puzzles, alongside their other gaming products, positions them as a significant retailer in the hobbyist market.

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