Handtool and Cutlery Manufacture
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Industry Overview
The US handtool and cutlery manufacturing industry includes about 1,400 companies with combined annual revenue of $10 billion. Major companies include Snap-on, Klein Tools, and the tools units of Stanley Works, Cooper Industries and Newell Rubbermaid. The industry is concentrated: the 50 largest companies hold more than 65 percent of the market.
Competitive Landscape
Demand depends heavily on the construction and building repair industries. The profitability of individual companies depends on marketing and efficient production. Large companies have economies of scale in purchasing and production. Small firms can compete by making specialty products.
Products, Operations & Technology
Major products include handtools, cutlery, saw blades, and kitchen utensils. Handtools such as wrenches, hammers, scissors, vises, clamps, screwdrivers, pliers, chisels, and measuring devices, account for about 55 percent of industry revenue. Cutlery, including kitchen knives, sporting knives, razor blades, and "flatware" (table knives, forks and spoons), accounts for around 15 percent of industry revenue, while saw blades and kitchen utensils account for about 13 percent each, and various miscellaneous items for the rest.
Manufacturers use a variety of fabrication processes including forging, stamping, bending, forming, and machining to turn purchased metal into final products. Steel is the major raw material, often in the form of alloys with special properties such as hardness or resistance to corrosion. Plastic is frequently used for handles.
Small manufacturers may buy semi-finished forgings or castings from outside suppliers; large manufacturers usually make their own. Because most handtools are fairly simple devices, the production process is uncomplicated and easily lends itself to automation. Companies typically make a range of products.
Some manufacturers make extensive use of robotics hardware and automation software that controls and tracks processes. Manufacturers use supply chain information systems that link to customers and suppliers to help ensure availability of materials to fulfill customer orders.
