Monotype

Monotype is one of the oldest and most influential type foundries in the world. Founded in 1887 with the invention of the Monotype System by Tolbert Lanston, the company has been at the forefront of typography for over 130 years.

History

The Monotype machine revolutionized typesetting by casting individual letters in metal, allowing for easier corrections and greater flexibility than the competing Linotype system. This innovation helped establish Monotype as a major force in the printing industry.

Acquisition and Growth

Over the decades, Monotype has grown through acquisitions of other foundries and type libraries. In 2006, Monotype acquired Linotype, consolidating two of the largest type libraries under one roof. The company now manages an extensive collection of over 150,000 typefaces.

Notable Typefaces

Monotype's portfolio includes some of the most recognized fonts in design:

• Gill Sans - Eric Gill's elegant humanist sans-serif
• Baskerville - A refined transitional serif
• Rockwell - A bold geometric slab serif
• Century Gothic - A clean, geometric sans-serif

Legacy

From print to digital, Monotype's typefaces have shaped visual communication across generations. The company continues to innovate with variable fonts, custom corporate typefaces, and font technology solutions.