Tool Manufacturing Companies Owning a Portfolio of Brands
The tool manufacturing industry is a complex landscape shaped by major companies that own multiple brands, each serving distinct market segments. These companies leverage their diverse portfolios to influence market trends, drive innovation, and cater to various customer needs.
Ownership Structures of leading tool manufacturers
Understanding the ownership structures of leading tool manufacturers reveals insights into their strategic approaches and the broader industry dynamics. This essay explores major tool manufacturing companies, detailing their brand portfolios, market strategies, and implications for the industry.
-
Stanley Black & Decker Inc.
2020 tool sales: $14.5 Billion
Headquarters: New Britain, CONNECTICUT, USA
Stanley Black & Decker Inc. is a global leader in tool manufacturing, managing a wide array of well-known brands. Established through the merger of Stanley Works and Black & Decker in 2010, the company’s portfolio includes:
- DeWalt: Renowned for its professional-grade power tools and accessories designed for demanding work environments.
- Craftsman: A historic brand with a broad range of hand tools and power tools, appealing to both DIY enthusiasts and professionals.
- Stanley: Known for hand tools, storage solutions, and security products, serving a diverse customer base.
- Black+Decker: Targets the consumer market with versatile and affordable tools for home improvement projects.
- AeroScout
- Bostitch
- Facom
- Irwin Tools
- Lenox
- Lista
- Mac Tools
- Porter-Cable
- Proto
- Vidmar
Stanley Black & Decker’s strategy of acquiring and managing multiple brands allows it to dominate various segments of the tool market, from high-end professional tools to consumer-friendly options.
2. Robert Bosch GmbH
2019 Consumer Goods division sales: €18.8 Billion / $20.9 Billion)
Headquarters: Gerlingen-Schillerhöhe (near Stuttgart), GERMANY
Robert Bosch GmbH is a major player in the global tool industry, recognized for its high-quality engineering and innovative products. Bosch’s portfolio includes:
- Bosch Professional: Focuses on durable and high-performance power tools for professional users in construction, woodworking, and other industries.
- Skil: Offers a range of budget-friendly tools for DIY enthusiasts, providing a balance of quality and affordability.
- Beissbarth
- CST/Berger
- Diablo
- Dremel
- Freud
- Hawera
- OTC
- Robinair
- Rolatape
- Rotozip
- Vermont American
Bosch’s diverse brand portfolio enables it to address the needs of both professionals and amateur users, reinforcing its position as a leader in the tool industry.
3. Techtronic Industries Company Limited (TTI)
2020 tool sales: $9.8 Billion
Headquarters: HONG KONG
Techtronic Industries Company Limited (TTI) is a prominent player in the power tool industry, managing several influential brands:
- Milwaukee: Known for its high-performance power tools and hand tools designed for professionals in various trades.
- Ryobi: Targets DIY enthusiasts and homeowners with a range of affordable and versatile tools.
- AEG: Offers a variety of power tools and hand tools, focusing on both professional and semi-professional markets.
- Dirt Devil
- Empire
- Hart
- Homelite
- Hoover
- Imperial Blades
- Oreck
- Stiletto
- Vax
TTI’s strategy involves leveraging its brand portfolio to cater to different customer segments, fostering innovation, and expanding its market presence.
4. Husqvarna Group
2020 tool sales: SEK 41.9 Billion / $5.1 Billion
Headquarters: Stockholm, SWEDEN
Husqvarna Group specializes in outdoor power products, with a portfolio that includes:
- Husqvarna: Provides high-quality lawnmowers, chainsaws, and garden equipment, serving both professionals and homeowners.
- Gardena: Focuses on gardening tools and irrigation systems, catering to gardening enthusiasts and professionals.
- McCulloch: Known for affordable outdoor power tools, targeting the consumer market.
- Diamant Boart
- Flymo
- HTC
- Jonsered
- Poulan Pro
- RedMax
- Zenoah
Husqvarna Group’s diverse brands allow it to address various needs in the outdoor power tool sector, from high-end professional equipment to budget-friendly options.
5. Makita Corporation
2020 tool sales: YEN 492.6 Billion / $4.6 Billion
Headquarters: Anjo, JAPAN
Makita Corporation is a leading manufacturer of power tools, with a portfolio that primarily includes:
- Makita: Offers a wide range of cordless and electric power tools, known for their reliability and performance.
- Maktec
Makita’s single-brand strategy focuses on delivering high-quality tools across various categories, maintaining a strong market presence through innovation and durability.
6. Andreas Stihl AG & Co2019 tool sales: €3.9Billion / $4.4 Billion
Headquarters: Waiblingen, GERMANY
Andreas Stihl AG & Co is renowned for its high-quality outdoor power tools, particularly:
- Stihl: Specializes in chainsaws, trimmers, and other outdoor equipment, known for their reliability and performance in professional and residential settings.
- Viking
Stihl’s focus on a single, strong brand allows it to concentrate on delivering excellence in outdoor power tools, maintaining a reputation for quality and innovation.
7. Snap-on Incorporated
2017 tool sales: $3.7Billion
Headquarters: Kenosha, WISCONSIN, USA
Snap-on Incorporated is a leading manufacturer of high-quality tools for professionals, with a portfolio that includes:
- Proto Tools: Known for durable hand tools designed for industrial and automotive use.
- Williams Tools: Offers precision hand tools for professional users.
- Bahco
- Blue Point
- CDI Torque
- Hofmann
- Lindstrom
- Snap-on
- Sioux
Snap-on’s emphasis on professional-grade tools reflects its commitment to delivering high-performance products for demanding applications.
8. Illinois Tool Works Inc. (ITW)2020 tool sales: $3.5 – $5 Billion
Headquarters: Glenview, ILLINOIS, USA
Illinois Tool Works Inc. (ITW) is a diversified manufacturer with a strong presence in the tool sector. Its portfolio includes:
- Paslode: Specializes in nail guns and fastening tools for the construction industry.
- DEWALT Industrial: Provides industrial-grade tools and accessories.
- Bernard
- Buehler
- Buildex
- Hobart
- Miller
- Ramset
- Reid
- Spit
- Tregaskiss
ITW’s approach involves leveraging its diverse brands to serve various industrial and professional markets, driving innovation and maintaining a strong market position.
9. Hikoki
2017 tool sales: $1.7 Billion
Headquarters: Tokyo, JAPAN
Hikoki, formerly known as Hitachi Power Tools, is known for:
- Hikoki: Offers a range of high-quality power tools, including drills, saws, and grinders, designed for professional and industrial use.
- Elektra Beckum
- Metabo
- Metabo HPT
Hikoki’s focus on a single brand allows it to concentrate on delivering reliable and innovative tools for various applications.
10. Emerson Electric Co.
2020 tools & home products sales: $1.6 Billion
Headquarters: Ferguson, MISSOURI, USA
Emerson Electric Co. is a diversified industrial manufacturer with a notable presence in the tool industry through:
- RIDGID: Offers a range of plumbing and HVAC tools, known for their durability and performance.
- ProTeam
- Workshop
Emerson’s strategy involves leveraging RIDGID’s reputation for high-quality tools to cater to specialized market segments.
11. Apex Tool Group
2018 tools & home products sales: $1.4 Billion
Headquarters: Sparks, MARYLAND, USA
Apex Tool Group is a major manufacturer of hand tools and power tools, with a portfolio that includes:
- GearWrench: Known for innovative hand tools designed for professionals.
- Crescent: Offers a range of adjustable wrenches and hand tools.
- Allen
- Apex
- Belzer
- Campbell
- Cleco
- Dotco
- Erem
- H.K. Porter
- Jacobs
- Lufkin
- Master Power
- SATA
- Utica
- Weller
- Xcelite
Apex Tool Group’s brand portfolio allows it to serve various segments of the tool market, from industrial applications to everyday use.
12. Chervon Group
Tool sales: Unknown
Headquarters: Nanjing, CHINA
Chervon Group is recognized for its innovative power tools, managing brands such as:
- EGO: Focuses on battery-powered outdoor tools, emphasizing performance and environmental benefits.
- Chevrons: Provides a range of advanced power tools.
- Calendula
- Devon
- FLEX
- Hammerhead
- Skil
- Skilsaw
- Xtron
Chervon’s strategy involves using its brands to address emerging trends in technology and sustainability.
13. TTS Tooltechnic Systems AG & Co.KG (Festool Group)
2019 tool sales: $696 Million
Headquarters: Wendlingen, GERMANY
TTS Tooltechnic Systems AG & Co.KG, known for the Festool Group, is recognized for:
- Festool: Specializes in high-quality woodworking and industrial tools, known for precision and innovation.
- Tanos
- TTS Cleantec
Festool’s focus on a single brand allows it to maintain a strong reputation for excellence in specialized tools.
14. Ideal Industries
2019 tool sales: $339 Million
Headquarters: Sycamore, ILLINOIS, USA
Ideal Industries is known for:
- Ideal: Specializes in electrical tools and accessories, serving electricians and industrial users.
Ideal Industries’ single-brand approach allows it to focus on delivering high-quality tools for its target market.
- Anderson Power Products
- Enatel
- Pratt-Read
- SK Hand Tools
- Western Forge
15. Positec Tool Corporation
Tool sales: Unknown
Headquarters: Suzhou, CHINA
Positec Tool Corporation is known for:
- WORX: Offers a range of innovative and user-friendly power tools and garden equipment.
- Rockwell: Provides a variety of power tools with a focus on performance and versatility.
Positec’s portfolio reflects a commitment to innovation and consumer-friendly design.
16. JPW Industries
2019 tool sales: $85 Million
Headquarters: La Vergne, TENNESSEE, USA
JPW Industries is a manufacturer of industrial machinery and tools, with a portfolio including:
- Wilton: Known for heavy-duty clamps and vises.
- Jet: Offers a range of woodworking and metalworking tools.
- Powermatic: Specializes in high-end woodworking machinery.
- Baileigh Industrial
- Edwards Manufacturing
JPW’s brands cater to both industrial and professional users, focusing on quality and performance.
17. Ingersoll Rand Inc.
Tool sales: Unknown
Headquarters: Milwaukee, WISCONSIN, USA
Ingersoll Rand Inc. is a diversified industrial manufacturer with a notable presence in the tool sector through:
- Ingersoll Rand: Provides a range of air tools and compressors.
- ARO: Specializes in fluid handling and dispensing equipment.
- Champion Pneumatic
- CompAir
- Gardner Denver
- LeRoi
- Milton Roy
Ingersoll Rand’s brand portfolio serves various industrial and professional markets, emphasizing reliability and performance.
18. Single Brand Tool Manufacturing Companies
2020 tool sales: CHF 5.3 Billion / $5.45 Billion
Headquarters: Schaan, LIECHTENSTEIN
Several companies maintain a single brand focus, allowing them to concentrate on specific market needs:
- Hilti Group: Specializes in high-performance tools for the construction industry under the Hilti brand.
- Klein Tools: Known for hand tools designed for tradespeople and professionals.
- C. & E. Fein GmbH: Offers high-quality oscillating multi-tools and other professional-grade power tools.
19. Big Stores That Own Tool Brands But Don’t Manufacture Them
2020 tool sales: $270 Billion
Headquarters: Lincolnshire, ILLINOIS, USA
Several large retailers own tool brands but do not manufacture them:
- The Home Depot Inc.: Owns brands like Husky and Ryobi, foc
- Tool Manufacturing Companies
using on providing a wide range of tools for home improvement. - Lowe’s Companies Inc.: Owns brands like Kobalt and CRAFTSMAN, targeting both DIY enthusiasts and professionals.
- Menards Inc.: Owns brands like Masterforce, providing tools for various home improvement needs.
- Harbor Freight Tools: Owns brands like Pittsburgh, Banks, Bauer, Central Pneumatic, Chicago Electric, Drill Master, Hercules, Warrior, Central Pneumatic, offering affordable tools for a broad customer base.
Conclusion
The tool manufacturing industry is characterized by a diverse range of companies managing multiple brands, each catering to different segments of the market. From Stanley Black & Decker and Bosch to Techtronic Industries and Husqvarna Group, these companies leverage their brand portfolios to address various customer needs and market segments.
Understanding these dynamics provides valuable insights into how brand ownership influences market trends, product innovation, and consumer choices. As the industry continues to evolve, the strategic management of brand portfolios will remain a critical factor in shaping the future of tool manufacturing.