The world of home improvement has seen its fair share of shifts and changes over the years, with brands evolving, merging, and sometimes, parting ways. One of the most notable developments in recent memory involves the iconic tool brand Craftsman and its relationship with major retailers. For decades, Craftsman tools were synonymous with Sears, but after Sears’ decline, Craftsman tools began appearing in other stores. A common question among DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike is whether Lowe’s, one of the largest home improvement retailers in the United States, still carries Craftsman tools. To answer this, we must delve into the history of Craftsman, its evolution, and the current state of its distribution.
Introduction to Craftsman
Craftsman is a brand that has been around for nearly a century, established in 1927. It quickly became known for its high-quality tools that were both durable and affordable. For a long time, Craftsman tools were exclusively sold at Sears stores, making Sears the primary retailer for these products. The brand’s popularity grew due to its lifetime warranty on hand tools, which underscored the company’s confidence in its products. Craftsman’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction helped it become a staple in many American garages and workshops.
Evolution of Craftsman
Over the years, Craftsman expanded its product line to include lawn and garden equipment, such as mowers and trimmers, in addition to its tool offerings. However, as the retail landscape began to change, with the rise of online shopping and big-box stores, Sears found itself struggling to compete. This led to a significant decline in Sears’ sales and, consequently, a reevaluation of the Craftsman brand’s distribution strategy. In 2017, Stanley Black & Decker acquired the Craftsman brand from Sears, aiming to expand its availability in the market.
Impact of the Acquisition
The acquisition by Stanley Black & Decker marked a significant turning point for Craftsman. The new ownership signaled a potential shift in where and how Craftsman products would be sold. One of the first moves was to make Craftsman tools available at more retailers, breaking the exclusive arrangement with Sears. This strategic decision was aimed at increasing Craftsman’s market share and making its products more accessible to a wider audience. Increased availability was seen as a key factor in the brand’s potential for growth under new ownership.
Current Distribution and Availability
So, does Lowe’s still carry Craftsman? The answer is yes. Following the acquisition, Lowe’s became one of the primary retailers where Craftsman tools are sold. This partnership has been beneficial for both parties, as it allows Lowe’s to offer a well-known and respected brand to its customers, while Craftsman benefits from the extensive reach and customer base of Lowe’s. Today, customers can find a wide range of Craftsman tools and equipment at Lowe’s stores across the United States and on its website. This includes hand tools, power tools, and lawn and garden equipment, all backed by Craftsman’s warranty and reputation for quality.
Benefits for Consumers
The availability of Craftsman tools at Lowe’s offers several benefits to consumers. Convenience is a major advantage, as customers can now find Craftsman products alongside other brands, making it easier to compare and choose the right tools for their needs. Moreover, the partnership with Lowe’s has led to competitive pricing, as Lowe’s aims to offer tools at prices that are attractive to DIYers and professionals alike. Additionally, Lowe’s extensive network and efficient supply chain ensure that Craftsman products are readily available, reducing wait times for both online and in-store purchases.
Online Shopping Experience
For those who prefer the convenience of online shopping, Lowe’s website provides an intuitive and user-friendly platform to browse and purchase Craftsman tools. The site allows for easy filtering by price, customer reviews, and specific product features, making the selection process more streamlined. Furthermore, Lowe’s often offers free shipping on qualifying purchases, as well as in-store pickup for online orders, which can be particularly useful for those needing tools quickly.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the relationship between Lowe’s and Craftsman represents a significant development in the home improvement retail sector. With Craftsman tools now available at Lowe’s, both in-store and online, customers have more options than ever to access high-quality tools from a brand they trust. The expansion of Craftsman’s distribution channels is a testament to the brand’s commitment to its customers and its desire to remain a leader in the tool industry. As the home improvement market continues to evolve, the partnership between Lowe’s and Craftsman is poised to meet the changing needs of DIY enthusiasts and professionals, ensuring that quality tools are always within reach. Whether you’re a seasoned craftsman or just starting your DIY journey, knowing that Craftsman tools are available at Lowe’s can make all the difference in your projects’ success.
Does Lowe’s Still Carry Craftsman Products?
Lowe’s, the popular home improvement store, has had a complex relationship with Craftsman, a well-known brand of tools and equipment. Although Craftsman was previously owned by Sears, it was acquired by Stanley Black & Decker in 2017. This change in ownership led to a significant shift in the distribution of Craftsman products. As a result, Lowe’s began to carry a wide range of Craftsman products, including tools, lawn and garden equipment, and storage solutions. Today, customers can find a variety of Craftsman products on the shelves of Lowe’s stores across the United States.
The selection of Craftsman products at Lowe’s includes a broad range of items, such as wrenches, sockets, and toolsets, as well as lawn mowers, trimmers, and other outdoor equipment. Additionally, Lowe’s offers a variety of Craftsman storage solutions, including toolboxes, chests, and cabinets. With the wide range of Craftsman products available at Lowe’s, customers can find the tools and equipment they need to complete their home improvement projects. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional contractor, Lowe’s is a great destination to find high-quality Craftsman products.
What Happened to the Relationship Between Sears and Craftsman?
The relationship between Sears and Craftsman was long-standing, with Craftsman being one of the most recognizable and trusted brands in the Sears family. However, in 2017, Sears announced that it would be selling the Craftsman brand to Stanley Black & Decker, a leading manufacturer of tools and equipment. This sale marked a significant shift in the history of Craftsman, as the brand would no longer be exclusively owned and distributed by Sears. The sale was seen as a strategic move by Sears to generate much-needed cash and focus on its core retail business.
As a result of the sale, Stanley Black & Decker acquired the rights to the Craftsman brand, including its intellectual property, manufacturing facilities, and distribution networks. This acquisition enabled Stanley Black & Decker to expand the distribution of Craftsman products to a wider range of retailers, including Lowe’s. Today, Craftsman products are available at a variety of retailers, both online and in-store, giving customers more options than ever before to purchase their favorite Craftsman tools and equipment. The sale of Craftsman to Stanley Black & Decker has helped to ensure the long-term viability of the brand, which remains a trusted and iconic name in the world of home improvement.
Can I Still Buy Craftsman Products at Sears?
Although Sears is no longer the exclusive owner of the Craftsman brand, customers can still purchase Craftsman products at Sears stores. However, the selection of Craftsman products at Sears may be limited compared to what is available at other retailers, such as Lowe’s. Sears continues to carry a range of Craftsman tools and equipment, including lawn and garden products, but the variety and depth of the product line may not be as extensive as it once was.
Despite the limited selection, Sears remains a viable option for customers looking to purchase Craftsman products. Additionally, Sears continues to offer its own brand of tools and equipment, known as Craftsman Professional, which is designed to provide high-quality performance at an affordable price. For customers who are loyal to the Sears brand and prefer to shop at their local Sears store, the Craftsman products available at Sears can still provide the quality and reliability that they have come to expect from the brand. However, for a wider selection of Craftsman products, customers may want to consider visiting a Lowe’s store or shopping online.
How Has the Relationship Between Lowe’s and Craftsman Evolved Over Time?
The relationship between Lowe’s and Craftsman has undergone significant changes in recent years. Prior to 2017, Craftsman products were primarily available at Sears stores, and Lowe’s carried a limited selection of Craftsman tools and equipment. However, with the acquisition of Craftsman by Stanley Black & Decker, Lowe’s saw an opportunity to expand its offerings and become a major retailer of Craftsman products. Today, Lowe’s carries a wide range of Craftsman tools, lawn and garden equipment, and storage solutions, making it a one-stop shop for customers looking for high-quality Craftsman products.
The evolution of the relationship between Lowe’s and Craftsman has been driven by a combination of factors, including changes in consumer preferences, shifts in the retail landscape, and strategic decisions made by the companies involved. As customers have increasingly turned to online shopping and sought out a wider range of products from their preferred retailers, Lowe’s has responded by expanding its selection of Craftsman products. At the same time, Stanley Black & Decker has worked to build a stronger relationship with Lowe’s, recognizing the potential for the retailer to become a major distribution channel for Craftsman products. As a result, customers can now find a broader range of Craftsman products at Lowe’s than ever before, making it easier to find the tools and equipment they need to complete their home improvement projects.
What Are the Benefits of Buying Craftsman Products at Lowe’s?
There are several benefits to buying Craftsman products at Lowe’s, including a wide selection of products, competitive pricing, and convenient shopping options. With a broad range of Craftsman tools, lawn and garden equipment, and storage solutions available, customers can find the products they need to complete their home improvement projects. Additionally, Lowe’s offers a price match guarantee, ensuring that customers can get the best price on their Craftsman products. Customers can also take advantage of convenient shopping options, such as online shopping with in-store pickup or delivery, making it easy to get the products they need quickly and efficiently.
Another benefit of buying Craftsman products at Lowe’s is the ability to take advantage of the retailer’s knowledgeable staff and customer support. Lowe’s employees are trained to provide expert advice and guidance, helping customers to find the right products for their projects and ensuring that they have the knowledge and skills needed to use their new tools and equipment effectively. Furthermore, Lowe’s offers a range of services, including tool rental and repair, which can help customers to get the most out of their Craftsman products. With its wide selection of products, competitive pricing, and convenient shopping options, Lowe’s is a great destination for customers looking to purchase high-quality Craftsman tools and equipment.
Are Craftsman Products at Lowe’s Covered by a Warranty?
Yes, Craftsman products purchased at Lowe’s are covered by a warranty. The specific terms and conditions of the warranty vary depending on the product, but most Craftsman tools and equipment are backed by a limited lifetime warranty. This warranty provides customers with peace of mind, knowing that their products are protected against defects in materials and workmanship. If a customer experiences a problem with their Craftsman product, they can contact Lowe’s customer support or visit a store to initiate the warranty claim process.
In addition to the limited lifetime warranty, some Craftsman products may be covered by an extended warranty or protection plan. These plans can provide additional protection and support, including accidental damage coverage and dedicated customer support. Customers can purchase these plans at the time of product purchase or later, depending on the specific product and retailer. With the warranty and protection plans available, customers can have confidence in their Craftsman products, knowing that they are protected against defects and other issues. This can help to reduce the risk of purchasing a defective product and provide customers with a better overall ownership experience.