LEO computer name plate from LEO I or II, made by J Lyons and Company Limited, England, 1951-1960.

J Lyons & Co was the first company to build and use computers for business purposes. The LEO I was closely modelled on the Cambridge EDSAC, one of Britain's first computers. The LEO I ran its first application, a bakery valuation, in 1951. LEO was originally designed specifically for use by Lyons. However, several other companies showed interest in using the machine and Lyons managers set up a subsidiary to expand the computer business. The donor of this object was originally employed by Lyons to assist with the development of the computers before Lyons moved into commercial manufacturing.