Our Company
We Honor and Serve Those Who Do the Tough Jobs
Since founder Don Kotula opened his garage door to the world in 1980, Northern Tool + Equipment has stayed true to a vision that has guided the company ever since – building lasting relationships by providing the right solution for our customers. Today, Northern Tool + Equipment has grown into a billion-dollar company that provides over 70,000 carefully chosen tools via catalogs, website and retail stores.
We’re not the first company that started out in a garage. But we might be one of the few still driven by an innate love for the craft we possess.
With a growing footprint across 22 states, a selection of products from the top national brands, and global manufacturing operations, we’re on a fast-paced growth trajectory that’s tied to putting people first and helping our customers and communities tackle tough jobs. We’re powered by smart, hard-working, helpful people—some who’ve been here for most of their careers. People who were Made For This.
We’re inspired by customers who create and solve for a living. And we’re here to boldly build what comes next.
Our Leadership
Founded by a man with a vision. Carried on by hardworking family members. And now, passionately operated by an entire team of knowledgeable, like-minded individuals earning the distinction of honorary family.
Tools for the trades
We believe strongly in giving back to the communities we call home. You can be sure if there’s a storm, flood or any other challenging times in one of the communities we call home, Northern Tool will be right there to step up with timely support to help get the area back on its feet.
With a passion for both giving back and helping to fill the trades labor shortage, our Tools for the Trades TM program donates high-quality tools directly into school classrooms, helping teachers show students the value of working in the trades.
Our History
We’ve grown from a startup catalog distributor run from the family garage, to a billion-dollar tool and equipment company. The dramatic transformation has lasted for decades and continues to grow.
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