OtterBox is an American manufacturing company that specializes in producing waterproof and drop-proof cases for electronic devices. The company was founded in 1998 by Curt Richardson and Ryan Stutsman, and is headquartered in Fort Collins, Colorado.
BACKGROUND
Since its inception, OtterBox has released several different product lines, including the Defender Series, Commuter Series, and Symmetry Series. The Defender Series is the company’s flagship product line and offers the most protection against drop and water damage. The Commuter Series is designed for everyday use and offers moderate protection against drop and water damage. The Symmetry Series is OtterBox’s slimmest and lightest product line and offers minimal protection against drop and water damage.
In addition to its primary product lines, OtterBox also offers a variety of accessories, including power banks, cable management products, and screen protectors. OtterBox’s products are available for purchase online through the company’s website, as well as through select retailers.
HISTORY
- 1998-2004: Early history and the Defender Series
OtterBox was founded in 1998 by Curt Richardson and Ryan Stutsman. The company’s initial product was a box designed to hold a fishing rod and reel, which they sold out of the back of their truck at fishing tournaments.
In 2000, OtterBox released its first electronic device case, the OtterBox 2000, which was designed to protect handheld devices such as Palm Pilots and Blackberrys.
In 2003, OtterBox released the Defender Series, its flagship product line. The Defender Series is a rugged, waterproof case that offers protection against drop and water damage.
- 2004-2010: Growth and expansion
In 2004, OtterBox expanded its product line to include cases for laptops and other larger electronic devices.
In 2007, OtterBox acquired LifeProof, a manufacturer of waterproof and drop-proof cases for iPhones and iPads.
In 2010, OtterBox launched the Commuter Series, a slim and lightweight case designed for everyday use.
- 2011-present: Continued growth and expansion
In 2011, OtterBox expanded its product line to include power banks, cable management products, and screen protectors.
In 2012, OtterBox acquired a minority stake in Incipio, a manufacturer of mobile device accessories.
In 2013, OtterBox launched the Symmetry Series, its slimmest and lightest product line.
In 2014, OtterBox acquired ReTrak, a manufacturer of retractable cables and other mobile device accessories.
In 2015, OtterBox launched the Venture Series, a rugged and waterproof case designed for outdoor use.
In 2016, OtterBox acquired ZAGG, a manufacturer of mobile device accessories.
In 2017, OtterBox launched the Strada Series, a leather case designed for the iPhone.
In 2018, OtterBox launched the Otter + Pop Symmetry Series, a case with a built-in PopSockets grip.
In 2019, OtterBox acquiredKuzy, a manufacturer of Macbook and iPad accessories.
- 2020-present: COVID-19 pandemic and partnership with Verizon
In 2020, OtterBox partnered with Verizon to sell its products in Verizon stores.
In 2021, OtterBox launched the OtterBox Essential Series, a budget-friendly product line.
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, OtterBox donated cases to healthcare workers and first responders. The company also launched the OtterBox Elevate Program, which provides discounts on its products to essential workers.
Where is otterbox made
OtterBox is an American manufacturing company founded in 1998 that produces water resistant, drop proof, and shock proof cases for mobile devices. The company is headquartered in Fort Collins, Colorado. OtterBox cases are available for purchase online through the company’s website, as well as through select retailers.
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, OtterBox donated cases to healthcare workers and first responders. The company also launched the OtterBox Elevate Program, which provides discounts on its products to essential workers.