IKEA sand toys identical to Hape/educo

[Snow mom]

We bought a bunch of sand toys at IKEA this summer and I just realized they are identical to what is sold as Hape/Educo sets elsewhere (except the colors are different). I don't know why I've never wondered where IKEA toys come from but this realization has made me curious so I thought I'd share it with the IKEA experts here :)

IKEA: http://www.houzz.com/photos/253068/SANDIG-4-piece-sandbox-set-modern-kids-toys-
Hape: http://www.oompa.com/item/JHP-BEACH-BASICS-E4001/Hape-Beach-Basics-Sand-Toys/1.html?gdftrk=gdfV22453_a_7c767_a_7c5081_a_7cJHP_d _BEACH_d_BASICS_d_E4001&gclid=CL-tz5WeqrkCFYU5Qgod8VsAzA

Any of the IKEA sandig toys (displayed on the right side of the houzz link) I was able to find the corresponding Hape set. We've been very happy with these and after DH lost several pieces of Spielstabil sand toys I'm happy to have something less expensive that doesn't break easily to send to the beach.

[crl]

Cool. We got a couple of sets about three weeks ago on clearance. So if your Ikea has any left they may be marked way down. I think I paid $1.49 each for an ice cream set and a cooking set. The kids LOVE them.

Catherine