tonies SE is a toy production company renowned for its innovative screen-free audio entertainment system designed for children. The company's flagship product, the Toniebox, is a cube-shaped digital audio device that comes to life when paired with 'Tonies' – collectible, hand-painted figurines of popular characters. Founded in 2013 by Patric Faßbender and Marcus Stahl in Germany, the concept originated from Faßbender's desire to create a digital audio system for children that would avoid scratched CDs and offer a screen-free entertainment experience. Stahl took on the technical development of the Toniebox, and Boxine GmbH was established to bring their vision to life.
The first Toniebox and 14 Tonies were launched in the summer of 2016. The system is designed to be intuitive for children aged three and up, allowing them to control storytelling and music independently by simply placing a Tonie figure on the box. The company's mission is to provide an immersive and imaginative experience that fosters a love for stories and songs. tonies® has expanded significantly since its inception, becoming a prominent brand in the children's entertainment market. The company went public in November 2021 through a merger with 468 SPAC I SE and is listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange. Headquartered in Luxembourg City, Luxembourg, and Düsseldorf, Germany, tonies® operates in multiple countries, including the US, UK, France, and Australia, with its products available in over 100 countries. The company collaborates with numerous licensors, including Disney, Warner, and Marvel, to offer a wide range of content. As of early 2024, Tobias Wann serves as the CEO, leading the company into its next phase of international growth and product innovation.
The Toniebox and Tonies figures are designed in Düsseldorf, Germany. The Tonieboxes are manufactured in China and Hungary, while the Tonies figures are produced in Tunisia and China. The company emphasizes creativity, imagination, and screen-free play, aiming to make a positive impact on children's development and family bonding. tonies® has received several awards for its product design and innovation, including the Red Dot Design Award. The company continues to expand its product line, including 'Creative-Tonies' that allow users to upload their own content and 'Clever Tonies' aimed at older children with educational material. With millions of Tonieboxes and tens of millions of Tonies sold worldwide, the company has established itself as a global leader in interactive audio entertainment for children.