In the 1970s, Matchbox switched to the more conventional, plastic and cardboard "blister packs" used for other die cast cars, such as Hot Wheels, although the box style packaging was re-introduced for the collector market in recent years, particularly successfully with the release of the "35th anniversary of Superfast" series in 2004.

The Matchbox/Lesney factory was a major employer in Homerton, East London, although in 1990 the company relocated to Rugby in the West Midlands.*

Establishment of the 1-75 and other core series

In the earliest years of the 1-75 series — well before the series actually numbered 75 models — Lesney was marketed/distributed by Moko (itself named after its owner, Moses Kohnstam). Boxes in that era mentioned this, with the text "A Moko Lesney" appearing on each. Lesney gained its independence from Moko in the 50s by buying the company, leading into a period of growth, both in sales and in size. Early models did not feature windows or interiors, were made entirely of metal, and were often about 2" (5 cm) in length. By 1968, Matchbox was the biggest-selling brand of small diecast model cars worldwide. By this time, the average model featured plastic windows, interiors, tires (often with separate disc wheels), and occasional accessories; spring suspensions; opening parts; and was about 3" (7 cm) long. Some even featured steering, including the pressure-based AutoSteer system debuting in 1969. The line was very diverse, including many trucks/lorries, tractors, motorcycles, and trailers as well as standard passenger cars.