Shaping the European Tool Market
From cordless drills to robotic lawnmowers, Europe and its global allies are powering the future of industrial and garden tools. In this overview, we look at major manufacturers—European champions and overseas heavyweights with deep roots in the region—whose tools are in every garage, job site, and garden. Together, these companies employ tens of thousands across Europe, blending tradition with cutting-edge innovation.
Robert Bosch GmbH
A leading European manufacturer of power tools and accessories (with both professional and consumer product lines), also producing garden/outdoor equipment under the Bosch brand. Bosch’s Power Tools division is part of the larger Bosch Group conglomerate. The Bosch Group employs roughly 427,000+ people worldwide, including about 134,000 in Germany (and many more across other European countries)
Hilti Corporation
A European manufacturer renowned for professional construction and industrial tools, especially anchoring systems, heavy-duty drills, and other power tools for the building trade. Hilti operates in over 120 countries with about 34,000 employees around the world. Headquartered in Schaan, Liechtenstein, it maintains a strong footprint across Europe and is known for its direct-sales model and innovation in construction technologies.
Stihl GmbH & Co. KG
A German company specializing in outdoor power equipment for forestry and lawn care – including chainsaws, trimmers, blowers, and lawn mowers. Stihl is a leading global brand in forestry and garden machinery, with around 20,000 employees worldwide. Nearly half of Stihl’s workforce (about 9,300 employees) is based in Europe, reflecting its roots and major manufacturing operations in Germany and neighboring countries.
Husqvarna Group
A Swedish manufacturer of forest, park, and garden care tools, known for products like robotic lawnmowers, traditional mowers, chainsaws, and watering equipment (the group also includes the Gardena brand). Husqvarna Group employs approximately 13,800 people in 40 countries, with headquarters in Stockholm and significant production in Europe. It holds a substantial share of the global market for outdoor power products and also produces equipment for light construction (e.g. cutting and diamond tools for the building industry).
Makita Corporation (Japan)
A major Japanese manufacturer specializing in cordless power tools (drills, saws, drivers) and outdoor equipment like battery-powered mowers and trimmers. Makita has around 17,700 employees worldwide (source), with roughly 27% of its workforce based in Europe (source) — approximately 4,700 employees. It is one of the top global power tool brands, serving both professional trades and consumers with a wide range of tools.