DeWalt Expands U.S. Cordless Tool Production

CHARLOTTE, NC - DeWalt says it began production of American-built cordless power tools in its 75,000-square-foot Charlotte manufacturing facility last month, looking to tap into its professional users' preference for products made in the U.S.

"Our users are professional contractors and builders themselves. When given the option, most prefer to spend their money on a product that is built in the USA," said Frank Mannarino, president of DeWalt Professional Power Tools.

DeWalt cites a 2013 Consumer Reports National Research Center study that showed 78% of Americans would rather buy the American version when asked to choose between a product made in the United States and an identical one made abroad.

DeWalt says its investment in the revamped factory will help boost the local economy and create more than 250 new jobs. "There's a great deal of pride that goes into making things at home—we're thrilled to bring some jobs back to the U.S.," Mannarino said. DeWalt produced a video, "Tools of the Brave," that shows the plant operations.

DeWalt Tools of the Brave lists the 32 hand tools, 48 power tools and 562 saw blades and other accessories, including 20V cordless hammer drivers and drills.

 

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Bill Esler | ConfSenior Editor

Bill wrote for WoodworkingNetwork.com, FDMC and Closets & Organized Storage magazines. 

Bill's background includes more than 10 years in print manufacturing management, followed by more than 30 years in business reporting on industrial manufacturing in the forest products industries, including printing and packaging at American Printer (Features Editor) and Graphic Arts Monthly (Editor in Chief) magazines; and in secondary wood manufacturing for WoodworkingNetwork.com.

Bill was deeply involved with the launches of the Woodworking Network Leadership Forum, and the 40 Under 40 Awards programs. He currently reports on technology and business trends and develops conference programs.

In addition to his work as a journalist, Bill supports efforts to expand and improve educational opportunities in the manufacturing sectors, including 10 years on the Print & Graphics Scholarship Foundation; six years with the U.S. WoodLinks; and currently on the Woodwork Career Alliance Education Committee. He is also supports the Greater West Town Training Partnership Woodworking Program, which has trained more than 950 adults for industrial wood manufacturing careers. 

Bill volunteers for Foinse Research Station, a biological field station staddling the border of Ireland and Northern Ireland, one of more than 200 members of the Organization of Biological Field Stations.