DeWalt

History

DeWalt was founded in 1924 by Raymond E. DeWalt in Leola, Pennsylvania, known as the inventor of the radial arm saw. His invention had a major impact on the development of electric woodworking tools. The business expanded rapidly, and the company was reorganized and re-registered in 1947 as DeWalt Inc. In 1949, it was acquired by American Machine & Foundry Co, which later sold it to Black & Decker in 1960. In 1989, Black & Decker sold the part of the business responsible for manufacturing radial saws to two company executives, while retaining a focus on other types of professional-grade tools. In 1992, Black & Decker launched a rebranding initiative, introducing its professional and high-performance tools under the name DeWalt tools. This move significantly influenced the market by creating a strong brand focused on tools for professional use. In 1994, DeWalt acquired the German manufacturer ELU and integrated its technology into its product lineup. By 2001, DeWalt was producing and selling over 200 models of professional tools and 800 accessories. DeWalt quickly became a favorite among commercial contractors, especially in the construction industry. In 2004, Black & Decker acquired rival tool manufacturer Porter-Cable and merged it with DeWalt in Jackson, Tennessee. In 2011, DeWalt began producing hand tools for contractors, including utility knives, pliers, adjustable wrenches, measuring tools, saws, and hammers, all essential tools on a modern jobsite. Two years later, they expanded into automotive tools, such as wrenches, ratchets, and sockets. In December 2013, DeWalt announced that certain products would be assembled in the United States, using components sourced from Brazil, China, the Czech Republic, Italy, Mexico, the UK, and the US. By 2015, the company operated seven manufacturing facilities in the U.S., reinforcing DeWalt's image as an American tool brand.