Since July 2014, traditional celluloid balls have been gradually replaced by plastic balls at ITTF tournaments and in most high-ranking leagues. Plastic balls are more environmentally friendly to produce while maintaining comparable playing characteristics. They are typically distinguished from conventional celluloid balls by the "40+" imprint. Schildkröt's table tennis ball production has a long history, dating back to 1896 when the so-called blow-press method was developed in Mannheim, which is still used to manufacture the balls today. No other brand is as closely associated with table tennis balls as Schildkröt. Donic enjoys an excellent reputation worldwide in the table tennis competition segment and supplies numerous well-known top players. The German traditional brand Schildkröt has been established in the market for over 100 years and is considered the inventor of the table tennis ball. Donic-Schildkröt is now the undisputed market leader in recreational table tennis in Central Europe. Production takes place in the BSCI-certified Schildkröt factory in China under the highest social standards.