History

Colorific has enjoyed an exciting and prosperous history over the past 20 years. We pride ourselves on this history and are always excited to share it with everyone. Take a look below at the path that took us to where we are today.

1986-1990

  • Colorific began as a small division of the Alexander Group in Melbourne, Australia in 1986. The company developed and marketed a unique range of children's craft to the toy and craft industries, and school suppliers.
  • In 1990, Wayne Brander and Peter Levi acquired Colorific. Each partner had a background in successful retailing, and both were founding directors of Australia's second largest toy buying group, Toy Kingdom.

1991-1995

  • In the first full year of trading, the business more than trebled. Dramatic growth continued over the years.
  • Colorific became an established name in the toy industry due to innovative marketing, excellent customer service and an increasing product range.
  • In 1992, Colorific expanded into New Zealand.

1996-2000

  • Colorific moved into its first purpose-built warehouse/office complex in Springvale in 1996
  • Sales continued to grow significantly.
  • In 1999, Colorific featured in a multimillion-dollar TV, press and billboard campaign nationally to promote the Commonwealth Bank.

2001-2005

  • In 2001, Colorific purchased Glow Zone - the leading marketer of glow in the dark toys in Australia and New Zealand. The range was redeveloped in-house, and relaunched in 2002.
  • Also in 2001, our first International Business Manager is appointed to grow Colorific's international business.
  • Wayne Brander retired and Peter Levi gained full ownership of Colorific in 2003.
  • In 2004, Colorific moved into its second purpose built, modern and exciting headquarters in Clayton!
  • ScrapAttack was the number one selling Arts & Craft Kit for 2005!
  • Also in 2005, Colorific appointed its first dedicated Educational Resources Category Manager to grow the school supply business.
  • Funrise, a top 20 US Toy Marketer in 2005, agreed to take on Colorific as its sole craft range, aiding in broadening the Colorific brand to more and more countries!
  • Ending 2005 on a high, the Melbourne Business Awards voted Colorific the 2005 Business of the Year!

2006 - Current

  • Starting 2006 well, Colorific brought home the ATA Australian Development Award for their new construction product, LUGZ.
  • May 2006 saw Colorific recognised as the leading supplier in Children's Craft by receiving the First Generation - Family Business of the Year award in Victoria.
  • A National award is won! The Levi Family accepted the 2006 Australian Family Business of the Year - First Generation, on behalf of Colorific in September at the Family Business Australia Conference.
  • In February 2010, Colorific acquires Fun N Fashion Australia, a leading distributor of girls' accessories and toys, including the Crystal fairy brand.
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