Craftsman power tools, a name synonymous with reliability and durability, have been a staple in American households for nearly a century. From its humble beginnings to becoming a part of one of the largest tool manufacturers in the world, Craftsman has consistently been associated with high-quality craftsmanship. Today, as the brand continues to evolve, its power tools are produced by multiple manufacturers under the watchful eye of Stanley Black & Decker, ensuring that they meet the rigorous standards expected by both professional tradespeople and DIY enthusiasts.
Current Owner: Stanley Black & Decker
Craftsman, once the hallmark of Sears, is now owned by Stanley Black & Decker, a global leader in tools, security, and industrial products. In 2017, Stanley Black & Decker acquired Craftsman from Sears in a landmark deal valued at $900 million. This acquisition marked a significant turning point in Craftsman’s history, as it transitioned from being a Sears-exclusive brand to a broader presence in retail and the global tool market.
As part of the acquisition, Stanley Black & Decker gained full rights to the Craftsman name, intellectual property, and its associated products, ushering in a new era for the brand. The acquisition allowed Craftsman to expand beyond its historical retail partner, Sears, and position itself for greater distribution through various outlets, including Lowe’s, Ace Hardware, and online platforms like Amazon.
Who Makes Craftsman Power Tools?
Although Stanley Black & Decker owns the Craftsman brand, the actual manufacturing of Craftsman power tools is carried out by several different companies under contract. This arrangement ensures that Craftsman products are produced at a competitive scale while maintaining the high standards the brand is known for.
Some of the key manufacturers producing Craftsman power tools include:
Apex Tool Group
A major player in the global tool industry, Apex Tool Group manufactures a wide range of Craftsman tools, including hand tools and power equipment. The group’s expertise in precision manufacturing and high-quality standards aligns with Craftsman’s commitment to durability.
DeVilbiss Air Power
Specializing in air-powered tools and equipment, DeVilbiss Air Power is another trusted partner for producing Craftsman’s power tools. Known for their expertise in pneumatic tools, they contribute to Craftsman’s offerings, particularly in areas like air compressors and spray equipment.
Emerson Electric Company
Known for its innovations in industrial and consumer products, Emerson Electric produces a variety of Craftsman power tools, ensuring they meet performance and safety standards.
Techtronic Industries (TTI)
TTI, which also manufactures tools under the Ryobi and Milwaukee brands, is another key manufacturer of Craftsman tools. This partnership allows for the integration of cutting-edge technology into Craftsman’s product line, enhancing power, battery life, and overall user experience.
Through these partnerships, Craftsman has access to advanced manufacturing techniques and technologies, which help maintain the brand’s reputation for quality while ensuring consistency across its wide range of power tools.
A Brief History of Craftsman
Craftsman’s journey began in 1927 when it was introduced as a house brand by Sears, Roebuck & Co. Initially designed to offer high-quality tools at affordable prices, Craftsman quickly gained a reputation for reliability and value. The brand became a cornerstone of Sears’ product offerings, symbolizing durability and craftsmanship to generations of Americans.
For decades, Craftsman tools were sold exclusively through Sears, making them one of the most recognized brands in the tool industry. However, as Sears struggled in the retail market and consumer preferences shifted, the brand’s position in the market weakened. In 2017, the decision to sell Craftsman to Stanley Black & Decker marked the next chapter in its storied history. Stanley Black & Decker’s acquisition gave Craftsman the opportunity to expand its reach and revitalize its product line, bringing the tools to a wider audience and restoring its position as a leader in the tool market.
Quality Assurance: Maintaining Craftsman’s Reputation
One of the most important concerns for consumers when purchasing power tools is the quality and durability of the products. With the production of Craftsman power tools spread across multiple manufacturers, some might wonder whether the tools still meet the high standards the brand is known for.
The good news for customers is that despite the diversified manufacturing partnerships, Craftsman power tools continue to maintain the rigorous quality standards that have long been associated with the brand. This is due to the oversight provided by Stanley Black & Decker, which has implemented stringent quality control measures across all of its manufacturing partners.
Stanley Black & Decker’s robust quality assurance program ensures that each Craftsman tool undergoes comprehensive testing to meet performance, safety, and durability benchmarks. Whether a Craftsman drill, saw, or air compressor, customers can trust that each product has been built to last, backed by the same level of craftsmanship that has made Craftsman a household name.
Conclusion
Craftsman power tools have come a long way since their inception in 1927. Today, the brand is owned by Stanley Black & Decker, one of the world’s largest tool manufacturers. Craftsman tools are produced by several trusted manufacturers, including Apex Tool Group, DeVilbiss Air Power, Emerson Electric, and Techtronic Industries, ensuring a diverse range of products with cutting-edge technology and manufacturing excellence. While the tools may come from different factories, the oversight provided by Stanley Black & Decker guarantees that Craftsman’s legacy of quality, durability, and innovation continues to thrive.
For those seeking reliable tools, whether for professional use or home improvement projects, Craftsman remains a name that stands the test of time, delivering power tools that live up to their reputation.
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