Ever found yourself asking, “Is Flex Tools Discontinued?” If you are a DIY enthusiast or a professional in the trade, you might have heard the recent buzz about Flex Tools.
There have been some concerns recently about the brand, with questions floating around in workshops and online forums. Popular among them is ‘Is Flex Tools discontinued?’
But could this be true or it’s just another rumor you need to take with a pinch of salt? We will address that in this post. But before we jump into the nitty-gritty details, you need to know that Flex Tools is not discontinued.
Just keep reading as we take a dive into this because there is a lot more to the story than meets the eye!
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Is Flex Tools Discontinued?
First things first: let’s address the elephant in the room. Is Flex Tools discontinued, really? The answer, quite simply, is no.
But where did these whispers come from? It all started when Lowe’s, a major retailer, ended their Flex cordless power tool promotions unexpectedly and began removing these items from their shelves.
This move understandably sparked speculation among customers and industry observers. However, it turns out, this was more about a strategic refresh rather than discontinuation. Flex, keen on focusing on their new Stacked Lithium Battery Technology and Compact Series, was reshaping their offerings.
So, while some older models were indeed pulled from Lowe’s, Flex Tools as a brand is far from being discontinued. Flex itself has confirmed that this is just a shift in its business strategy and doesn’t mean that Flex Tools as a whole is going anywhere.
A Closer Look at Flex Tools
To truly appreciate what Flex Tools offers, we need to take a step back and look at Flex Tools as a whole. What’s their story?
Founded under the Chervon Group, Flex has been a significant player in the power tool industry. Their tools are known for their robust performance, innovative technology like turbo modes, and anti-kickback tech, making them a favorite among professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike.
What sets Flex apart? It’s their commitment to combining power with technology. When they introduced their 24V Max line of cordless power tools, exclusive to Lowe’s at the time, they promised unparalleled power and efficiency. And they delivered.
However, not all has been smooth sailing. Recently, some of their tools were removed from Lowe’s amidst a shift in strategy, focusing on compact tools and new battery technology. This move, while strategic, led to some confusion about the brand’s future.
In fact, when you hear people today asking, ‘Is Flex Tools discontinued?’ this is one major event fuelling such a question. But why did Lowe’s have to take this decision, knowing how much it could cost Flex’s reputation? We will talk about that in the next section.
Why Did Lowe’s Dump Flex Power Tools?
So, why did Lowe’s decide to clear out some of Flex’s inventory? It seems to boil down to a couple of reasons. First, it was a broader strategy to refresh their inventory with newer, more compact tools with advanced battery technology. This shift meant phasing out some of the original, bulkier models.
Also, let’s not forget the financial aspect. Chervon, Flex’s parent company, reported a decrease in profits and revenue, which might have influenced Lowe’s decision to focus on more profitable, newer models.
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Who Makes Flex Tools?
Did you know Flex Tools has a pretty impressive pedigree? They’re made by Chervon, a major player in the tool industry. Chervon is not just any manufacturer; they’re behind other big names like Skil and Ego and even produce for Kobalt.
Flex Tools itself has a rich history, dating back to 1922 in Germany. They are the brains behind the world’s first handheld grinder in 1954, making them one of the pioneering entities in the industry! Though now part of the Chinese Chervon Group, Flex continues to maintain its legacy of innovation and quality.
And this is one thing that has made the brand the go-to for many professionals and DIY enthusiasts. So, when you hear such concerns as ‘Is Flex Tools discontinued?’ you should understand how many people’s voice is actually behind such a question.
Where are Flex Tools Made?
This is where it gets interesting. Flex Tools, with its deep roots in Germany, has historically been associated with German engineering and manufacturing.
The company has its primary production facility located in Steinheim, Germany. However, after joining the Chervon Group, the manufacturing landscape diversified.
While their headquarters and original production facility remain in Germany, the reality of global manufacturing means some of their products, especially those in the 24V line found at Lowe’s, are now made in Asia.
Common Flex Power Tools
#1: The Flex ¼-Inch Quick Eject Driver
This is undoubtedly one of Flex Tools’ most common productions. Imagine a tool that combines power with precision – that’s the Flex ¼-Inch Quick Eject Driver for you.
It’s a game-changer in its category, boasting unrivaled torque for those challenging tasks. One amazing thing about the tool is that it offers three speed settings, catering to various needs and ensuring you always have the right power at your fingertips.
And let’s not forget the self-tapping screw mode. It is a thoughtful addition that makes fastening screws easy and fast. Whether you are assembling furniture or working on a complex construction project, this driver is designed to make your work faster, easier, and more efficient. Because of these, it quickly became the favorite of many professionals.
#2: Flex ½-Inch Drill Driver with Double Speed and Turbo Mode
Now, let’s talk about a drill that redefines power – the Flex ½-Inch Drill Driver. With an impressive torque of 1,400-inch pounds, this tool is a powerhouse in its own right.
Its 2-speed feature offers flexibility, allowing you to adjust the speed according to the task at hand. The turbo mode is also a standout feature. It delivers faster drilling for those time-sensitive projects. Plus, its anti-kickback technology and sensor-free brushless motor not only enhance safety but also ensure a longer lifespan for the tool.
#3: The Quick Eject Reciprocating Saw
Cutting through wooden materials can be a daunting task, but not with the Flex Quick Eject Reciprocating Saw. This tool is designed for high efficiency, capable of cutting through up to 50 4x4s on a single charge.
Its key feature is the Shockshield technology, which significantly reduces vibrations, making for a smoother, more controlled cutting experience. The saw also boasts a keyless blade eject system for quick and safe blade changes – no more worrying about touching hot blades.
#4: Flex Safety VC21LMC Vacuum Cleaner
When it comes to cleanup, the Flex Safety VC21LMC Vacuum Cleaner is a compact powerhouse. It’s not just about its size; this vacuum cleaner packs a punch with a high-performance turbine, delivering impressive suction capacity.
Its manual filter cleaning system is a standout feature, allowing you to blast away dirt and dust with ease. The vacuum cleaner comes with a 1000-watt power input and a 5-meter cable, making it both powerful and flexible.
#5: Flex Brushless Hammer Drill Driver
This tool is also a marvel of engineering, perfect for drilling through a variety of materials. Weighing just 3.7 lbs and measuring 7 inches in length, it’s compact yet powerful. It is not only powerful but also user-friendly and efficient.
Is Flex Tools Discontinued – Final Note
To bring this to a close, remember that the buzz around Flex Tools being discontinued is nothing but just buzz. While Lowe’s may have shifted their strategy, leading to the removal of some older models from their shelves, Flex Tools is very much alive and kicking.
The brand continues to innovate and offer a wide range of high-quality power tools, both online and in stores. So, rest assured, Flex Tools isn’t going anywhere anytime soon!
FAQs
Is Flex Tools discontinued?
No, Flex Tools is not discontinued. Despite the recent buzz around the brand because of the event that happened at Lowe’s where some Flex Tools were removed from their shelves, Flex Tools continues to operate and innovate in the power tool market. The brand has been focusing on introducing new products to help it better compete in the market.
Who is making Flex Power Tools?
Flex Power Tools are made by Chervon, a globally recognized manufacturer in the power tools industry. Chervon, a Chinese company, acquired Flex in 2013 and has since been responsible for manufacturing Flex power tools.
Chervon is known for producing tools for various other brands as well, such as Skil, Ego, and Kobalt, making it a significant name in the tool manufacturing world.
What Country Makes Flex Tools?
Flex Tools has its historical roots in Germany, where it was originally founded and established its reputation for quality and innovation. However, since being acquired by Chervon, the manufacturing of Flex tools has become more globalized.
While some of the original Flex tools are still made in Germany, the Flex 24V line found in Lowe’s, for instance, is currently made in Asia.
Who is the Largest Power Tool Manufacturer?
The title often fluctuates between several major companies, depending on various market metrics. However, Stanley Black & Decker is frequently cited as one of the largest power tool manufacturers in the world. They own several major brands, including DeWalt, Craftsman, and Black & Decker.
Other notable large manufacturers include Bosch, TTI (Techtronic Industries), and Makita. Each of these companies has a significant global presence and offers a wide range of power tools and equipment.