Our History
The Calzone Case Company
Origins and Mission
Since the mid-1970s, Calzone Case Company has set the industry standard for manufacturing the highest quality custom and standard cases. Originating in the Rock & Roll business, Calzone has expanded into virtually every market imaginable. A family organization with a clear goal—to build the best cases in the world at a fair price with on-time delivery—Calzone takes pride in delivering consistent care and quality in every product. Whether for a local musician or for the tactical deployment of military equipment, Calzone provides reliable protection you can depend on.
Founded by drummer-turned-entrepreneur Joe Calzone in January 1975, the company began in Norwalk, Connecticut. With his brother Vin, Joe embarked on a mission to create the highest quality cases in the music industry. Rapid growth led to the company moving to a larger facility in Bridgeport, Connecticut, in 1983, which remains the corporate headquarters today.
The Calzone Case Company Grows With Strategic Acquisitions
Calzone’s strategic acquisitions have expanded its footprint nationwide. In 1985, the acquisition of a competitor in Dallas, Texas, marked the start of its westward expansion. By 1990, the acquisition of Excalibur Cases in Burbank, California, established a West Coast presence. The pivotal moment came in 1996 when Calzone acquired Anvil Cases, the industry leader known for revolutionizing reusable transit containers.
The acquisition of Anvil Cases from ZERO Corporation doubled Calzone’s size and solidified its position as the largest fabricated case manufacturer in the world. With manufacturing and customer service facilities in Connecticut, Texas, and California, the combined strengths of dealer networks, purchasing power, and a half-century of design expertise make Calzone the top choice for protective cases.
In 2013, the acquisition of Ascot Cases further enhanced Calzone's offerings, especially in the touring, aerospace, and trade show markets. Ascot’s unique product lines and commitment to quality seamlessly integrated into the Calzone/Anvil family.
Commitment To Excellence
Calzone’s reputation for quality and reliability is unmatched, backed by decades of expertise and a dedicated team of skilled craftsmen. We are proud of our accomplishments and committed to continuing our legacy as the largest and best in the industry.
Learn More About Calzone Case Company's Other Reputable Brands
Anvil® Cases
Anvil Cases, founded as the "Acme Pak" Company in 1952, quickly became synonymous with protection for traveling musicians. Originating from the need to package precision instruments post-World War II, Anvil's early designs catered to electric instruments and sound systems, setting a new standard in the music industry.
The Vallas Family founded Anvil, and its strategic location near Los Angeles contributed to its rapid growth. In 1976, CPA Wayne Thompson expanded Anvil into video, aerospace, film, military, and commercial markets, solidifying its industry leadership. In 1988, Anvil was sold to ZERO Corporation, and in 1996, Calzone Case Company acquired Anvil, marking a resurgence under Joe Calzone's leadership.
Today, combined with Calzone’s facilities, Anvil is part of the largest fabricated case manufacturer in the world. With a dedicated design and sales staff, Anvil continues to deliver custom-designed cases to meet any requirement, maintaining its reputation for quality and reliability.
Ascot® Cases
In 2013, Calzone/Anvil acquired Ascot Superior Flight Cases, founded by Rob Cooksey. Ascot quickly gained respect in the touring industry and other markets due to its robust 'one box' fabrication process and superior raw materials. The acquisition brought another level of protection to Calzone/Anvil, especially in aerospace, trade show, and exhibit markets.
The Ascot facility was relocated to the Anvil Case facility in City of Industry, California, retaining its skilled workforce and maintaining its high standards. Ascot's legacy of delivering on-time, high-quality cases continues to thrive within the Calzone/Anvil family.
With the combined expertise of Calzone, Anvil, and Ascot, Calzone Case Company remains the foremost name in protective cases, delivering unparalleled quality and customer satisfaction.