Libbey

Libbey

Libbey is one of the most widely recognised names in glassware within the global hospitality industry. The company was founded in 1818 as the New England Glass Company in Massachusetts, the business relocated to Toledo, Ohio in 1888 – helping establish the city’s reputation as “The Glass City.”

Libbey established machine-blown glass tumblers, making quality glassware more accessible, and even contributed to early electric lighting by producing glass for Thomas Edison. Today, Libbey remains a global manufacturing leader with a clear mission, to produce glassware that performs reliably in everyday hospitality environments while maintaining strong visual appeal.

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Durability Innovations

Libbey’s reputation is built on both scale, but on engineering glass specifically for commercial foodservice. The brand is widely recognised for two durability technologies that significantly reduce breakage, safety risks and replacement costs.

DuraTuff®: A specialised thermal after-process applied to the upper third of many pressed tumblers and stemware. DuraTuff increases resistance to thermal and mechanical shock and, crucially, alters break patterns. When failure occurs, the glass breaks into larger, safer pieces rather than small, sharp fragments.

Safedge® Guarantee: Libbey was the first glassware manufacturer to offer a guarantee against chipping. The Safedge Rim and Safedge Rim & Foot warranties provide replacement or refund if the reinforced rim or foot chips. This assurance is supported by a manufacturing process that creates a strengthened bead at the most vulnerable points of the glass.

Key Collections

Libbey’s extensive portfolio spans functional everyday glassware through to premium bar and stemware collections:

• Hobstar: A revival of a classic design from the late 19th-century “Brilliant Period” of American cut glass. This heavy, intricately patterned double old-fashioned glass has become a global standard.
• Gibraltar: A definitive high-volume commercial glass, recognised by its octagonal faceted base and exceptional durability.
• Master’s Reserve: Libbey’s premium range, manufactured in the USA using the ClearFire glass formula. Featuring laser-cut rims, seamless stems and exceptional clarity.
• Inverness: A classic barware collection featuring the Durabar pentagonal base, adding weight and stability.
• Spiegelau & Nachtmann: Libbey also distributes these renowned German crystal brands, offering ultra-fine Bavarian crystal alongside its core American-made ranges.

Why Choose Libbey?

Libbey is the preferred choice for operators seeking dependable supply, consistent product quality and long-term value.

• Enhanced Safety: DuraTuff technology reduces the risk of hazardous breakage in busy service environments.
• Lower Total Cost of Ownership: Reinforced construction and Safedge guarantees reduce replacement frequency and operating costs.
• Extensive Product Range: Thousands of SKUs allow venues to source everything from beer mugs and wine glasses to dessertware and table accessories from a single supplier.