Stratton, which started out as Stratnoid in 1860, initially made knitting needles. In 1923 they produced their first powder box. Then called Stratnoid. The first powder boxes under the name Stratton were released in the early 1930s. However, the start of WWII was disastrous for Stratton. Four of the five factories were seized by the Germans and production was stopped. After the war there was a shortage of materials. Until the 1950s when cosmetics became very important and powder boxes very popular. Stratton came up with an innovative design, a 'self-opening' lid. Broken fingernails were a thing of the past. In addition to powder boxes, Stratton also made other items such as lipstick holders and other accessories for handbags.
