Setting free a child’s imagination is at the heart of everything we do.

Celebration of imagination

This year celebrates 30 years of BABY born. Home to some of the most innovative, creative and exciting dolls and accessories known today.

In everything we do, we hold close the values that inspired us to begin play back in 1932.

We're going green

In 2021 we embarked on a mission to go green. We have taken our first steps in the move towards the elimination of single-use plastic and by the end of 2022, it is our promise to only use packaging which can be recycled or reused.

Just like magic!

2021 also marks the launch of our brand new BABY born Magic dolls
– a brand new concept which builds on imaginative play – allowing children to take the lead through versatile functionality.

Limitless Play!

In this year, we grew our product offering and play themes to continue our mission to inspire creativity and endless imagination!

BABY born’s ever expanding wardrobe and accessories
collection means she can now splash about in her own bathtub with music and real water, spend a sunny day at the beach in her deckchair, or dash through the city on her little scooter – almost anything is possible, and no limits are imposed on children’s imagination when they are playing.

A year of awards

In 2017, BABY born Interactive was awarded gold in the best doll category by Loved by Parents.

BABY born was also awarded best interactive toy 3-6 year olds as well as presented with awards by Made for Mums and Mums Choice Awards.

25 years of BABY born

Our much-loved BABY born is 25 years old! With an ever-expanding range and new functions including a softer body (making it easier for little ones to control), BABY born continues to inspire children’s imaginations.

No.1 Doll Brand

With 25 million dolls sold and an endless array of enhanced features and accessories available – the play opportunities are limitless. For many children across the world, BABY born becomes the ultimate best friend and companion – accompanying children out and about as well as around the home, helping to develop creative and imaginative play.

ZAPF CREATION AND MGA ENTERTAINMENT

In this year, Zapf Creation joins forces with leading global toy manufacturer MGA Entertainment. Solidifying their position alongside some of the worlds best loved toys.

INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERING

On 26 April, 1999 – Zapf Creation goes public. Our dolls have come a long way since the 90’s!

BABY BORN LAUNCHES INTO MARKET

In 1991, we officially launched BABY born into market and she becomes the first doll with realistic functions.

Much like the BABY born we know today, she measured 43cm and set about inspiring children’s imaginations around the world.

Before 1991, dolls had little to no functionality. BABY born raised the bar with its innovative design and functions meaning she could eat, drink, cry, sleep and of course – even use the potty! Just like a real baby!

PERFECT FOR SMALL HANDS

In 1960, Zapf Creation switched it’s production of BABY born dolls from celluloid to plastic – making them softer to touch and more versatile for small hands.

EXPANSION INTO THE INTERNATIONAL DOLL MARKET

In this year we expand into international markets and our BABY born quickly embarks on her journey to become a well-recognised and loved doll brand for generations to come.

ZAPF CREATION IS FOUNDED

The dream of all doll parents began 89 years ago, when Rosa and Max Zapf founded Zapf Creation in the town of Rodental, Germany.

From the company’s husband and wife team to the birth of BABY born 30 years ago, two things were especially important: consistently high quality and a never-ending stream of new ideas.