A brief history of Stanley Tools

Posted by Chris Sugden on

The history of Stanley Tools in the UK can be traced back to the early 19th century, when the Stanley Rule and Level Company was founded in New Britain, Connecticut, in 1857. The company quickly became known for its high-quality tools, and its products were soon being exported to the UK and other countries around the world.

In 1936, Stanley Works acquired the British J. A. Chapman company, a manufacturer of carpentry tools and other items. This acquisition gave Stanley a direct presence in the UK market, and the company began to manufacture Stanley-branded tools in Sheffield.

Stanley Tools quickly became one of the leading suppliers of hand tools in the UK, and its products were used by tradespeople and DIY enthusiasts alike. The company's range of tools included hammers, saws, screwdrivers, chisels, and planes, as well as tape measures, levels, and other measuring tools.

During World War II, Stanley Tools played a vital role in the UK's war effort. The company produced a wide range of tools for the military, including hammers, screwdrivers, wrenches, and pliers. Stanley Tools also produced tools for use in the civilian sector, such as shovels, axes, and saws.

After the war, Stanley Tools continued to grow and expand in the UK. The company opened new factories and distribution centres, and its products became increasingly popular with tradespeople and DIY enthusiasts.

In 1994, Stanley Works merged with Black & Decker to form Stanley Black & Decker. The merger created one of the world's largest tool companies, and Stanley Tools remains a key brand within the Stanley Black & Decker portfolio.

Today, Stanley Tools is one of the most trusted brands in the UK hand tool market. The company's products are known for their high quality, durability, and innovation. Stanley Tools offers a wide range of tools for a variety of applications, and its products are used by tradespeople and DIY enthusiasts alike.

Here are some of the key milestones in the history of Stanley Tools in the UK:

  • 1936: Stanley Works acquires J. A. Chapman, a British manufacturer of carpentry tools.
  • 1937: Stanley begins manufacturing Stanley-branded tools in Sheffield.
  • 1940s: Stanley Tools plays a vital role in the UK's war effort, producing tools for the military and civilian sector.
  • 1960s and 1970s: Stanley Tools expands in the UK, opening new factories and distribution centres.
  • 1994: Stanley Works merges with Black & Decker to form Stanley Black & Decker.
  • Today: Stanley Tools is one of the most trusted brands in the UK hand tool market.

Stanley Tools has a long and proud history in the UK. The company has been providing high-quality tools to tradespeople and DIY enthusiasts for over 80 years. Stanley Tools is committed to innovation and continues to develop new and innovative tools to meet the needs of its customers.

See our range of Stanley knives and blades