The Company was founded in 1919 by Abe and Lou Obstfeld, two brothers who had previous experience in the printing and marking industry. The first Markwell products were crayons and marking devices - hence the name: "Mark-well."

In the early 1920's the brothers started marketing a stapler made by the Acme Company, and shortly thereafter marketed their own 176 stapler. This was the forerunner of the RB Tacker, which later developed into the L3 type lever tacker. Markwell held the first patents on spring actuated manual lever tackers.

Prior to World War II, Markwell was one of the top four branded office stapling products in the USA. More recently the Company has expanded into specialized hand stapling tools, and other stapling and fastening related products, as well as shipping room supplies and equipment.

The Company had always been located in New York since its inception until its December 1988 move to Norwood, MA. During the 1990's, a related company was established in Florida. The Company continues to investigate new opportunities for growth.

The Company has built its tradition on quality, service and robust contractor-worthy tools, and it is this very philosophy that still distinguishes it today. A worldwide reputation is enjoyed in this respect. Its products can not be found in national "box" stores, but are marketed through specialty distributors.

Please read our "History" for further details.

  Our original 1933 Mascot was "STAPLE SAM"