Targus

Lore & Background

Targus was founded in Barnes, London in 1983 by Neil Bruce-Copp after he invented the world's first personal computer carrying case and secured orders from IBM and ICL to fund Targus Group. In 1986, Targus launched its first laptop case, the T3100L, with a 250-unit order from Toshiba. In 1995, Targus became known as Targus Group International and had offices in the US, Canada, Hong Kong, Taipei, Australia, and several more throughout Europe.

Targus opened its new headquarters in Anaheim, California in 2000. In 2004, Targus launched its first docking station, joined the Bluetooth marketplace, and developed the SafePort Air Protection System. Early in 2005, Targus joined the mobile device market with a range of iPod accessories. Since 2015 Targus has been a Samsung and Google partner. In 2016, Targus Group International filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection with plans to liquidate its assets after an agreement with creditors.

Reader's Guide

Targus's significance lies in its foundational role in the mobile computing accessories market, having created the first laptop case in 1983 and subsequently expanding into a broad range of computer and mobile device accessories. The company's early adoption of docking stations and Bluetooth technology, along with its SafePort Air Protection System, positioned it as a key supplier for both consumers and enterprise users. Its partnerships with major technology companies such as Samsung and Google since 2015 reflect its continued relevance in the mobile ecosystem. However, the company's legacy is also marked by its 2016 Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing, which led to a planned liquidation of assets following an agreement with creditors. This event underscores the volatility of the accessories market and the challenges faced by even pioneering firms in adapting to rapid industry changes. Targus's history illustrates the evolution from a single innovative product—the laptop case—to a global accessories brand, and its eventual financial restructuring serves as a cautionary note about the pressures of the competitive technology landscape.

Did You Know?

• Targus released the world's first laptop case in 1983.
• The first laptop case, the T3100L, was launched in 1986 with a 250-unit order from Toshiba.
• Targus opened its headquarters in Anaheim, California in 2000.