30 years of Innovation In most fairy tales, frogs turn into princes, but this innovative Canadian company became a king … of 3D puzzles. To understand the history of Wrebbit3D – makers of sturdy and challenging 3D jigsaw puzzles featuring high-definition graphics and striking realism – you first have to understand the role company founder Paul E. Gallant played in its success. After a rewarding career in the recording industry, working first for Trans Canada Musique, then CBS Records (Sony Music) and the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, Paul started Gallant International Inc., a company that found marketable products on behalf of clients. His work and his research led him to invent a process for making 3D
44 June 2022 — edplay.com
22_EPY_3_5.9.22.indd 44
puzzles. It relied upon innovative foam backing technology applied to puzzle pieces, and an ancient – but effective – jointing technique called mortis and tenon. What resulted was a revolutionary product that changed the face of jigsaw puzzles forever. Paul obtained a patent, registered the trademark to protect his invention, and in 1991 launched a new company in Montreal.
The success of his 3D puzzles – actual free-standing structures that elevated the puzzle-building experience – was instantaneous. The company’s funny name and frog logo became well-known among puzzlers. By 1997, Wrebbit had 250 local employees and $75 million in sales, reported the Montreal Gazette. In 30 years, the company has sold more than 30 million three-dimensional puzzles around the world. Paul died in 2011, the year the Wrebbit fable entered a new chapter. Former employees launched a new company, Wrebbit Puzzles Inc. Under the leadership of Jean Théberge, the company’s former legal counsel, and Paul’s son Eric, Wrebbit’s supply chain became local. The puzzles – printed puzzle sheets, assembly instructions, and cardboard – are sourced right in Quebec. The foam backing is produced in the U.S. The change allowed Wrebbit to scale up production when demand
5/9/22 1:22 PM
