The LEGO DUPLO theme was introduced as far back as 1969 and is designed for children ages 1 to 5. It features DUPLO figures which are much larger than minifigures and DUPLO blocks which are about twice the length, width, and height of a standard System brick. Like LEGO System, DUPLO also has subthemes that are often junior versions of System themes, like Pirates and Castle and licensed themes like Disney and Super Heros.
1969 LEGO Sets
1969 saw the launch of the DUPLO system, introducing double-sized bricks for preschoolers and opening a new age group for LEGO play. The company’s workforce surpassed 800 employees as sales and exports climbed. Trains advanced with new red spoked wheels, and LEGO Futura—an R&D division focused on concept development—was established in Billund. By this time, LEGO’s shift from cellulose acetate to ABS plastic was nearly complete, ensuring stronger and more colorfast bricks.