Company History

Playworld Systems began in 1952 as QE Manufacturing Company, a family-owned producer of precision machine parts. Seven years later we entered the playground industry as a supplier of high-quality products for other companies. As our reputation as a quality supplier grew, so did the demand in the playground and recreational markets.

Playworld Systems is born

Seizing the opportunity, we introduced our own brand of commercial playground products in 1971 under the company name Playworld Systems. Through the years, we have experienced phenomenal growth to become one of the leaders in commercial recreation and playground equipment manufacturing. We’ve expanded our company to include several product lines—including PlayDesigns preschool playground equipment and LifeTrail wellness stations for older, active adults—that reinforce our company mission of creating the world’s best play experiences for people of all ages.

A history of award-winning work

Our company is nationally recognized for excellence in design, having won two gold medals in the prestigious International Industrial Design Excellence Awards, two Recreation Resources Awards, and two Early Childhood Directors’ Choice Awards. We’re also proud recipients of:

• The International Design Magazine Gold Medal
• The Recreation Resources' Editors' Choice Awards for Safety Excellence
• The Pennsylvania Governor’s Award for Safety Excellence
• 100 Best Places to Work in Pennsylvania six times since 2001

Taking play around the world

Today, Playworld Systems is in its third generation as a family-owned business—and our presence is felt internationally. Our first European presence was launched in Herefordshire, England in 1996. In 2001, our second international office opened in Paris, France. Through these offices, we manage a network of global representatives throughout Europe, Asia, the Middle East and South America.

Though Playworld is global in size, we remain loyal to our roots. Through our corporate headquarters in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania and our network of suppliers—71% of our manufacturing supplies come from within 150 miles of our facilities—we continue to create rewarding jobs and economic opportunities in our local community.