Our Story
Curious and playful since 1966
Every day, someone is introduced to GONGE® for the first time and it will feel like discovering something new. However, although our current range contains items that are indeed new, it also features perennial classics that today’s adults will fondly remember from their childhood. Products that have been a staple of the professional and institutional childcare sector for over 60 years.
1966: The beginning of Gonge
In 1966, a school teacher handed his small company producing abacuses and other educational products over to a former pupil, Karen Margrethe Gonge, and her husband Jørgen. The GONGE family invested a lot of time and effort in learning about, and becoming experts in, these products.
1967: International Didacta Fair
Selling products that were quite new to the market was hard work, but the breakthrough came soon after the company’s first appearance at the international Didacta Fair in 1967, cementing GONGE’s belief in ‘products for learning’.
1971: Trading educational range for kindergardens
A couple of years later, the company began providing educational products for the growing number of kindergartens and, in 1971, the company commenced trading imported products to schools and kindergardens.
1986: From Pioneer to Market Leader
GONGE grew from pioneer to a market leader in products targeting new educational trends, listening to teachers and professionals, and involving them in the selection of products. Acquiring of the mould for ‘Tummelumsken’ – a red spinning top – in 1984, sparked a significant change of direction, as the Top caused quite a sensation when it was presented to the international audience at the 1986 Nürnberg Toy Fair.
1991: From Trading to Manufacturer
In 1991, Jørgen Gonge decided to focus solely on the manufacturer of motor skill products, as the export business continued to grow with customers all over Europe and beyond. He then also decided to give up the trading company as an initial preparation for his retirement.
2001: Generational Change
In 2001, his son, Henrik – who grew up listening to his parents talking about the products while he himself played with them – took up the position of general manager. This background, plus a doctorate in psychology, was to inspire Henrik’s ongoing development of the brand.
2010: A Natural merge with Winther Group
The continuous growth of the GONGE company called for an organizational change, and led to a harmonious merger with nearby Winther Group. The family-owned companies shared the same values, and both offer product ranges designed for ‘Learning by Moving’. The merger led GONGE to relocate to Winther Groups headquarters in Them, near Silkeborg, in 2010.
2020: Nordic Collection
GONGE remain loyal to their origins as supplier to the educational market, yet their creative approach to learning has become increasingly popular with families as well. Therefore, GONGE developed a new Nordic collection that stylistically suits the trending Nordic interior while at the same time maintains the professional aspects of colour range and function.
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Quality
We believe that quality should never be compromised. All our products are sourced from trusted manufacturers who share our commitment to excellence.
Sustainability
We are committed to promoting environmentally friendly practices, from sourcing materials to packaging.
Customer Focus
Our customers are at the heart of everything we do. We strive to understand their needs and provide tailored solutions that enhance their business operations.