CIPSA

Compañía Industrial de Plásticos, SA, better known as CIPSA, was a Mexican company specializing in the production of plastic products. The company was known to have produced many Mattel products under license, including Hot Wheels cars.

History[]

CIPSA was originally founded in 1939 by Max Shein Heisler. The company manufactured various plastic items, from combs to model kits to small toys. Heisler adapted what he saw around the world for the Mexican market, which is where he found success. He later began a partnership with Monsanto in 1959, ultimately selling all his shares to Monsanto in 1967; Monsanto rescinded the partnership in 1969.

CIPSA began production of Hot Wheels cars and track sets in the early 1970s under license from Mattel, with production continuing into the late-1970s; the last owner of the factory, Don Manuel Senderos, decided to close the factory permanently in the early 1980s. The old CIPSA factories still exist, although owned by a different company.

There is a rumor that the factory was closed permanently on account of damage caused by a fire in the 1970s; this has not been verified.

Known castings[]

CIPSA-manufactured Hot Wheels are very similar externally to most Hot Wheels of the time period. These do not feature any distinguishing features from Mattel-manufactured Hot Wheels from the time period and do not feature CIPSA logos on their bases. All CIPSA castings are manufactured in Mexico, but feature "Made in U.S.A." or "Made in Hong Kong" markings. These castings are very difficult to find today and are often noted to be found in poor condition.