Fun fact: Did you know that Tony Stark used a RIDGID pipe wrench in “Iron Man 2?”
Robert Downey, Jr. even signed one of the pipe wrenches after production wrapped up. It’s now kept behind glass on display in the company headquarters lobby.
The Marvel superhero isn’t the only one known to use Ridgid tools. Apparently, the maintenance crew for the Cleveland Indians does too. So does Saudi Aramco, the Saudi Arabia Oil Company that manages the world’s largest onshore and offshore oil fields. They use RIDGID’s Heavy-Duty wrenches for the toughest jobs.
In the words of one company executive, it’s amazing how - and where - people use Ridgid tools.
But wait, who makes these iconic steel grey and red tools?
Well, it’s a bit of a long story. Read on to get started.
How It All Began: A Brief History of Ridgid Tools
From the 2.5Ah Advanced Lithium Battery to the distinctive red Straight Pipe Wrench (and everything else in between), Ridgid Tools manufactures over 300 different types of tools as of this writing.
But where did it all begin?
The Founding of The Ridge Tool Company (Ridgid)
The Ridge Tool Company was founded in 1923 in North Ridgeville, Ohio. It relocated to Elyria, Ohio, around 1943 but eventually became a wholly-owned subsidiary of Emerson Electric in 1966.
In the present day, however, The Ridge Tool Company continues to make and distribute its tools under the Ridgid brand name.
How Ridgid Tools - And Its Brand - Have Evolved Over the Years
While Ridgid Tools remains to be an American company, it has since expanded its manufacturing processes to a number of cities all over the world. The company also has a sizable portion of its operations in Europe, and about half of its business comes from overseas.
The company’s product line initially targeted the plumbing, pipe fitting, construction, and HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) trades. Thus, the majority of its product line contains tools like pipe cutters, press tools, and pipe wrenches.
Over the past few years, though, Rigid also ventured into software development. For instance, RIDGID Connect enables plumbers, electricians, and repair technicians (among others) to store data online and bill or send data to their customers more easily.
Ownership and Manufacturing: The Bigger Picture
Sure, there are hundreds, perhaps even thousands, of power tool brands out there.
But did you know that only a handful of parent companies actually own your favourite tools?
And this makes answering the question of “Who Makes Ridgid Tools?” a bit more complicated.
When navigating the intricate landscape of power tool ownership, it can be astonishing to uncover that a few large corporations own many of the most recognized brands in the industry. Here's a snapshot of these parent companies and the famous tool brands they control:
1. Stanley Black & Decker (SBD)
Stanley Black & Decker is a powerhouse in the tool industry, with a diverse portfolio that extends beyond just hand tools:
- Tool Brands: Known for owning widely recognized names such as Black + Decker, DeWalt, Craftsman, and Stanley, among others.
- Outdoor Equipment: They also hold outdoor power equipment brands like Cub Cadet and Troy-Bilt, enriching their offerings in the garden and lawn care sector.
- Industrial Solutions: SBD’s reach stretches into industrial applications with brands like Stanley Engineered Fastening.
Founded in 1843, SBD's prowess was further solidified by its strategic acquisitions, including the integration of Black & Decker in 2010.
2. Techtronic Industries Co. Ltd. (TTI)
Originating from Hong Kong, TTI is a key player in the global tool market:
- Power Tools: They boast ownership of Milwaukee Tool, Empire Level, and HART Tools. Additionally, TTI holds licensing agreements for producing RIDGID and RYOBI cordless tools.
- Floorcare: Their acquisition of brands like Hoover and Dirt Devil places them as leaders in home cleaning solutions.
Established in 1985, TTI operates with a mission to deliver innovative products, evident in their robust portfolio and substantial global presence.
3. Chervon
Chervon emphasizes technological innovation and brand distinction:
- Brands: It acquired Skil and Skilsaw from Bosch in 2017, adding them to a line-up that includes EGO and FLEX.
- Consumer Reach: With products sold in numerous countries, Chervon maintains a strong foothold in both consumer and professional markets.
Their strategic expansion reflects a commitment to staying competitive in a fast-evolving industry.
4. Bosch
With a rich heritage, Bosch operates as a multifaceted conglomerate where power tools represent just one slice of its operations:
- Global Presence: Bosch's capabilities include the design and manufacture of a range of tools, from power tools to laser measurement devices.
- Comprehensive Approach: The company’s approach integrates innovation and quality, fostering a diverse portfolio that spans numerous applications and industries.
Bosch, maintaining over 350 subsidiaries, leverages its broad scope to advance its market influence and technological advancements continuously.
Understanding the tapestry of power tool ownership helps consumers make informed choices, unraveling the conglomerates that craft the tools widely used in homes and industries worldwide.
Who manufactures Harbor Freight Power Tools?
It's a question clouded in a bit of mystery. While there's speculation about several companies potentially being involved, like LuTool or Einhell, no official confirmation is available. Harbor Freight hasn't publicly disclosed the details about its manufacturing partners.
One possibility that's been suggested is Powerplus. This company, a division of the European firm Varo based in Belgium, has offered tools that closely resemble some of those in Harbor Freight's lineup. Notably, they have been mentioned in connection to resemblances with Bauer and Warrior brand tools sold by Harbor Freight.
The lack of official information means even experts can only make educated guesses. Harbor Freight maintains a diverse array of in-house brands, such as Bauer and Hercules, each offering a range of tools that appeal to DIYers and professionals alike.
In essence, unless Harbor Freight decides to open up about its partnerships, the exact manufacturers behind their power tools remain unknown. Their ability to forge strong relationships with various suppliers ensures a wide range of affordable and accessible power tools available to their customers.
Parent Companies and Licensing Rights
As mentioned earlier, Ridgid Tools is a subsidiary of Emerson Electric Co., an American multinational corporation in Ferguson, Missouri.
In a nutshell, you can say that Emerson Electric Co. owns Ridgid. And it’s true.
But the licensing rights for making some of Ridgid’s Tools is another story.
For example, while the company’s main manufacturing plant remains in Ohio, the licensing rights to make some of its cordless power tools belong to another company overseas.
We’re talking about Techtronics Industries Co Ltd. (TTI), a Hong Kong-based company that owns licensing rights for various power tool brand names. One of these is Ridgid.
Who Owns Major Tool Manufacturing Brands?
If you've ever found yourself holding a power tool and wondering who really stands behind your favorite tool brands, you're not alone. Ownership in the tool manufacturing industry may not be obvious, and you might be surprised to learn that a small number of companies own many popular brands.
Stanley Black & Decker: The Powerhouse Behind Craftsman and DeWalt
Stanley Black & Decker, a giant in the tool industry, has roots reaching back to 1843. This conglomerate made headlines when it acquired Craftsman Tools in 2017 following a significant downsizing of Sears. Originating from a merger of Stanley Works and Black & Decker in 2010, this company didn't just stop expanding. By 2021, they had solidified their position in the market by acquiring MTD Holdings and Excel Industries, becoming a leader in outdoor power equipment. In 2023, it reported revenues of $15.8 billion. Under its expansive umbrella, you'll find well-known names like Black + Decker, Craftsman, DeWalt, Mac Tools, among others.
Techtronic Industries: The Force Behind Milwaukee Tools
Milwaukee Tools, along with many other brands, is owned by Techtronic Industries Co. Ltd (TTI). Founded in 1985 in Hong Kong, TTI is a major player in the global tools market, with a workforce exceeding 22,000. The company is publicly traded on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange and boasted sales surpassing $13.7 billion in 2023. TTI's portfolio doesn’t stop at Milwaukee; it includes a variety of brands and licenses names like RIDGID* and RYOBI for cordless power tools, while Emerson owns the RIDGID brand itself.
Chervon: The New Home for Skil
In a pivotal move in 2017, Chervon took over Skil Power Tools from Bosch. This acquisition enriched Chervon's lineup with brands like Skilsaw, alongside Skil itself. Chervon, which began its power tools venture in 1993, also brings the EGO brand of cordless equipment to the market since 2013. Expanding further, 2021 marked the introduction of Flex Power Tools into its offering. Now, Chervon's innovative tools are available in over 30,000 stores worldwide, across 65 countries.
In summary, while Craftsman, Milwaukee, and Skil are popular names on their own, they're part of a much larger corporate landscape that shapes the tools market today. Understanding these connections can give you new insights into the tools you rely on for your projects.
Exploring the Brand Lineup of Hilti and Makita
When it comes to Hilti and Makita, these companies have distinct brand landscapes.
Hilti stands alone with no affiliated or subsidiary brands. It operates independently, focusing entirely on developing its range of premium tools and technologies for construction professionals worldwide.
Makita, in contrast, expanded its brand portfolio through acquisition. Notably, Makita acquired Dolmar in 1991, a significant move that enriched its collection of outdoor power equipment. Although the Dolmar brand was eventually rebranded under the Makita name, this acquisition marked a strategic addition to Makita's offerings.
So, while Hilti maintains its singular brand identity, Makita embraces its expanded lineup through strategic incorporation of additional products.
Ridgid and Its Affiliates
So, TTI has some licensing rights under the Ridgid brand name, particularly for some of its cordless tools. What does that mean?
It means that TTI has the right to manufacture some cordless tools under the Ridgid brand. This form of “cross-pollination” happens more often than you’d expect in the industry for various reasons.
Let’s illustrate by using a couple of the brand’s affiliates as examples.
Ridgid and Ryobi
TTI licenses both the Ridgid and Ryobi brands for manufacturing cordless power tools (along with other brands like Milwaukee Tool for other power tools). Beyond these, Techtronic Industries Co Ltd (TTI) boasts a robust portfolio of brands across various categories, reflecting their expansive reach in the power tool and outdoor product markets.
Power Tools, Equipment & Accessories
- AEG: Known in the USA as "Orange" Ridgid, licensed from Emerson.
- Dirt Devil: Offering a range of cleaning solutions.
- Empire Level: Specializing in precise measuring tools.
- HART Tools: Providing innovative tool solutions.
- Imperial Blades: Famous for high-quality oscillating tool accessories.
- Kango: Renowned for demolition and drilling tools.
- Milwaukee Tool: A leader in heavy-duty power tools.
- RYOBI: Licensed and widely recognized for versatile and affordable tools.
- Stiletto Tools: Celebrated for lightweight and durable hammers.
Outdoor Products
- AEG (OPE): Outdoor power equipment solutions.
- Homelite (OPE): Known for dependable outdoor tools.
- Milwaukee Tool: Expanding into robust outdoor equipment.
- Ryobi (OPE – Licensed): Offering a diverse range of outdoor power tools.
This comprehensive array of brands underscores TTI's commitment to innovation and quality, positioning them as a formidable force in both the power tools and outdoor equipment industries.
However, the Hong Kong-based company owns neither brand. Neither are Ridgid and Ryobi the same company. The two still belong to different parent companies.
Nor does TTI manufacture other tools under the Ridgid brand beyond those specified earlier. The parent company Emerson Electric (through its subsidiary Ridge Power Tool Company) still manufactures “Red” RIDGID plumbing tools, while TTI manufactures “Orange” RIDGID tools under license.
Ridgid and Home Depot
Some people think that Home Depot owns Ridgid because the two are commonly associated - with the big box store advertising the brand on occasion.
Unlike brands like Behr and Glacier Bay, Ridgid is not exclusive to Home Depot. It’s simply one of the brand’s many distribution hubs, which also include Zoro Tools, Global Test Supply, and Tool Authority.
So, while Home Depot does figure significantly in Ridgid’s distribution channels, it doesn’t play a role in the company’s manufacturing processes.
Who Crafts House Brands at Major Retailers?
House brands at major retailers like Home Depot, Lowe's, and Menard's are often the work of OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) or ODM (Original Design Manufacturer) solutions. These manufacturing methods mean that the products might be custom-designed for the retailer or based on existing designs.
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OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer): These manufacturers produce items according to specifications set by the retailer. Essentially, the retailer provides the design, and the OEM brings it to life.
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ODM (Original Design Manufacturer): These manufacturers take on the responsibility of designing and crafting products, sometimes offering these designs directly to retailers.
Home Depot's House Brands
<Home Depot collaborates with several manufacturers for its house brands. Notably, Husky tools are a collaboration with industry giants like Stanley Black & Decker, Apex Tool Group, and more. They also offer HDX, which covers many essential household goods.
Lowe’s House Brands
At Lowe's, Kobalt Tools stands out, with various lines made by Chervon for the 24V power tools, and Greenworks Tools for the 80V outdoor tools. Blue Hawk is another house brand supported by different OEM arrangements.
Menard’s House Brands
Menard's offers a wide range of house brands. Masterforce products often stem from collaborations with Chervon and other manufacturers. Unique to Menard’s, Midwest Manufacturing covers a variety of home improvement needs from cabinetry to concrete solutions. Other notable brands include Grip Fast, Guidesman for outdoor products, and Tool Shop for tools and accessories.
These retailers leverage their relationships with these manufacturers to offer quality products tailored to their customers' needs, often at a more competitive price compared to national brands.
So, Who Makes Ridgid Tools?
To recap, Hong Kong’s TTI holds the licensing rights to make some of the Ridge Tool Company’s cordless power tools under the Ridgid brand.
However, the company itself (though wholly owned by its parent company Emerson Electric Co.) continues to manufacture the vast majority of its product line, particularly the hand tools favoured by plumbers.
To understand the scope of Emerson's control, it's important to highlight several key brands and product lines under its umbrella:
- Emerson: A diverse range of products, particularly in industrial, commercial, and residential applications.
- Greenlee: Known for high-quality tools used by electricians and contractors.
- Klauke: Specializes in electrical connection technology and tools.
- ProTeam: Offers innovative vacuum solutions.
- RIDGID (Red): Renowned for plumbing and construction tools.
- WORKSHOP Vacs: Provides robust vacuum solutions for various needs.
Recent Changes in Ownership
- Sensi: Sold to Blackstone in 2023.
- Vilter: Also transitioned to Blackstone in 2023.
- Insinkerator: Acquired by Whirlpool in 2022.
By maintaining a strong portfolio, Emerson continues to influence a wide array of industries, ensuring that both established and newly acquired brands align with its commitment to quality and innovation.
Most parts are manufactured onsite, with human operators overseeing machines and robots involved. The main plant remains in Ohio, but there are also around eight worldwide plants that make components for Ridgid’s 300+ product line.
Fortunately, you don’t have to be as rich as Tony Stark to enjoy your favourite Ridgid Tools.
Find the Right Ridgid Tools for Your Needs
Now that you know a bit about the history and innovation behind Ridgid tools, it's time to take the next step and find the right ones for your projects. Whether you're tackling a big job or need reliable tools for everyday tasks, Ridgid has been trusted by professionals for decades—and we’re proud to offer their high-quality, durable products.
At MPR Tools & Equipment, we make it easy to get your hands on Ridgid tools at affordable prices. Plus, enjoy free shipping on eligible orders , and take advantage of our BOGO deals, 1-year price match guarantee, and hassle-free returns.
Click here to explore our current inventory of Ridgid Tools and upgrade your toolkit today with trusted, professional-grade equipment!
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Sources:
https://www.ridgid.com/sg/en/the-making-of-an-icon-the-ridgid-heavy-duty-straight-pipe-wrench
https://www.obsessedwoodworking.com/who-owns-ridgid-tools/
https://www.protoolreviews.com/power-tool-manufacturers-who-owns-them/
