Who Builds Craftsman Lawn Mowers? The Direct Answer
Craftsman lawn mowers are currently built by Stanley Black & Decker. This American manufacturer acquired the Craftsman brand in March 2017 from Sears Holdings. Today, Stanley Black & Decker owns, markets, and oversees the production of the entire Craftsman outdoor power equipment line, including lawn mowers, trimmers, and chainsaws.
Understanding the Craftsman Brand History
The Craftsman brand has a rich history that explains why you might encounter different manufacturer associations depending on when or where you purchased your mower.
The Sears Era (1927-2017)
Craftsman was originally a house brand for Sears, Roebuck and Co. starting in 1927. For decades, Sears contracted various manufacturers to produce Craftsman-branded tools and equipment. This is why many people still associate Craftsman with Sears. During this period, lawn mowers were produced by several different companies under license from Sears.
The Stanley Black & Decker Acquisition
In 2016, Sears announced it would sell the Craftsman brand to Stanley Black & Decker for approximately $900 million. The deal closed in March 2017, marking a significant shift in the brand’s ownership. Stanley Black & Decker, already a major player in the tool industry with brands like DeWalt and Black+Decker, gained control of one of America’s most recognized tool brands.
Transition Period and Current Status
Following the acquisition, Stanley Black & Decker began transitioning production and distribution. While some products continued to be manufactured by existing partners during the transition, Stanley Black & Decker has progressively brought more production in-house and established new manufacturing partnerships. As of today, the company has full control over the Craftsman brand and its product lines.
How Craftsman Lawn Mowers Are Manufactured Today
Under Stanley Black & Decker’s ownership, the manufacturing model for Craftsman lawn mowers combines in-house production with strategic partnerships.
Manufacturing Locations
Stanley Black & Decker manufactures Craftsman lawn mowers in several facilities across North America. The company has invested in expanding its manufacturing capabilities in the United States and Mexico to support the Craftsman brand. Specific models may be produced at different facilities depending on their design and complexity.
Licensed Manufacturing Partners
While Stanley Black & Decker oversees the brand, some specific Craftsman mower models may be produced by licensed manufacturers. These partners are carefully selected and must meet Stanley Black & Decker’s quality standards. The key point is that all licensed production is authorized and supervised by the parent company.
Quality Control and Brand Standards
Regardless of where a specific Craftsman mower is manufactured, all products must meet the brand’s quality specifications. Stanley Black & Decker maintains strict quality control processes to ensure consistency across the product line. This includes testing, design standards, and performance requirements that all manufacturers must adhere to.
Key Factors to Consider When Researching Craftsman Mowers
When shopping for Craftsman lawn mowers or researching the brand, consider these important factors to ensure you’re getting a genuine, current-model product.
Verifying Authenticity
- Purchase from authorized retailers: Buy Craftsman mowers from authorized dealers, home improvement stores, or the official Craftsman website to ensure authenticity.
- Check product labeling: Look for Stanley Black & Decker branding on product labels, manuals, or warranty information.
- Serial number verification: You can often verify a product’s authenticity through Stanley Black & Decker’s customer service using the serial number.
Understanding Warranty Coverage
Under Stanley Black & Decker’s ownership, Craftsman lawn mowers come with manufacturer warranties that are administered by the company. Warranty terms may vary by model, but they are now handled through Stanley Black & Decker’s customer service infrastructure rather than through retailers like Sears.
Product Evolution
Since the acquisition, Stanley Black & Decker has updated and expanded the Craftsman lawn mower lineup. New models may feature different designs, technologies, or features compared to older models produced under Sears’ ownership. Research current models to understand what’s available today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Craftsman lawn mowers still made by Sears?
No, Craftsman lawn mowers are no longer made by or for Sears. The Craftsman brand was sold to Stanley Black & Decker in 2017. While some older models may still be in use that were produced during the Sears era, all new Craftsman lawn mowers are manufactured under Stanley Black & Decker’s ownership and supervision.
Where are Craftsman lawn mowers manufactured?
Craftsman lawn mowers are manufactured in various facilities across North America, including in the United States and Mexico. Stanley Black & Decker operates several manufacturing plants and also works with authorized production partners. The specific manufacturing location may vary depending on the mower model and type.
How can I tell if a Craftsman mower is genuine?
To verify a Craftsman mower is genuine, purchase from authorized retailers, check for Stanley Black & Decker branding on product labels and documentation, and look for proper serial numbers. You can also contact Stanley Black & Decker’s customer service with the serial number to verify authenticity. Be cautious of products sold through unauthorized channels or at significantly reduced prices.
Did the quality change after Stanley Black & Decker acquired Craftsman?
Stanley Black & Decker has maintained the Craftsman brand’s reputation for quality while updating products with modern manufacturing techniques and materials. The company has invested in improving quality control processes and product design. While individual experiences may vary, the overall quality standards for Craftsman lawn mowers remain consistent with the brand’s heritage.
