Festool company history
1925
How it all began
Foundation of Festo by company partners Albert Fezer and Gottlieb Stoll. They initially concentrate on repairing wood processing machinery and making structural modifications to these machines by converting plain bearings to ball bearings.
1925 - 1932
First company logo and tool for carpenters
The first tools for carpentry were developed under the first company logo "Fezer & Stoll".
1929
Mobile chainsaw
More mobile: The first transportable chainsaw carries out heavy, previously manual work on site.
1930
SB 126 portable circular saw
The idea of the first mobile circular saw: With the SB 126 portable circular saw, you can avoid the tedium of transporting heavy material to stationary tools by simply taking the tool to the material instead.
1932
ZUM 140 chain mortiser
Precise and versatile – ZUM 140: For routing slots. For drilling holes. And for routing grooves on stair stringers with the aid of an additional device.
1933
Active in social matters
Berta Stoll, wife of Gottlieb Stoll and company partner, focusses her attention on the employees. This includes visiting those off sick, organising company functions and excursions and arranging children's Christmas celebrations.
1933
Modified logo
The first logo of the Festo brand.
1938
BD 125 portable circular saw
The BD 125 portable circular saw from the year 1938 was popular amongst carpenters and joinery firms alike.
1938
Build good things and spread the word
Festo soon discovered that trade fairs were an ideal platform for exhibiting and demonstrating Festo products.
1938
MTD and KTD disc sanders
Bestsellers throughout the 1930s and 1940s: The MTD and KTD disc sanders. The Festo disc sander was also the first sander with patented independent extraction.
1939
First new building
When space on Olgastrasse in Esslingen became too cramped for the continuously growing company, Gottlieb Stoll began planning the first new building on Ulmer Straße in 1938. A few years later, this address became the company's modern, new home.
1943
The second generation of Festo
A snapshot of the second generation of Festo. From left to right: Harald Kneile, Gerda Maier-Stoll, Heinz Attinger, Dr. Wilfried Stoll.
1946
AE 85 pendulum cover saw
The company set its sights on the timber construction industry from the very start, as demonstrated here by the AE 85 pendulum cover saw from 1946.
1946
AD 85 portable circular saw
The AD 85 portable circular saw offered its users six significant advantages: Exterior run-back protection for
greater safety, cutting depth adjustment without changing the motor's centre of gravity, slanted saw position at the scribe pointer level, gauge marker, shavings ejector and saw table contact surface.
1951
RTE orbital sander
Legendary to this day: The RTE orbital sander replaced the hand sanding block, which was unpopular and considered time-consuming among painters, carpenters and automotive body painters, and therefore paved the way for fine machine sanding.
1951
New location in Neidlingen
Neidlingen – renowned for its cherry blossom and, since 1951, for outstanding power tools. By 1950, it had become clear that the Ulmerstraße site in Esslingen would once again be too small in the medium term. In Neidlingen, Gottlieb Stoll found the perfect site to continue building tools for the toughest demands.
1953
SÄGEHEXE AAU 50 portable circular saw
One hand to work with, the other for increased safety: The SÄGEHEXE was the first one-handed circular saw with 500-watt cutting power at a cutting depth of 50 mm. It allowed carpenters to hold on to the roof with one hand while sawing with the other – something they had never been able to do before.
Patent: 843300 height adjustment
1956
AU 50/65 portable circular saw
Safety outside the box: The patented, integrated sliding clutch prevented the motor from overloading and protected the user from accidents. The AU 50/65 with cutting depth adjustment and slanted positioning replaced the SÄGEHEXE.
Patent 1958: 1089148 sliding clutch
1962
New company logo
In 1962, the Festo logo is redesigned for a more modern look. 1983 saw a further modification when the logo was turned blue.
1962
The first guide rail
In 1962, the first generation of guide rails is brought to market. This is replaced by the new aluminium version in 1980. From 2003 onwards, the FS/2 guide rail has been produced in a number of different variants. This second generation of guide rails has a second groove for additional accessories and a sliding strip to facilitate guiding the machine.
In the image on the right, Gottlieb Stoll demonstrates use of the first portable circular saw with guide rail at the beginning of 1960.
1966
RTT-S orbital sander
Sanding goes dust-free: The RTT-S was the world's first orbital sander with a dust extraction connection. Dust accrued while sanding and hazardous dust from 2K filler compound in particular was safely vacuumed by the extraction.
Patent 1969: 19 38 350 extraction connection
1975
Focus on power tools
In 1975, the executive board decided to abandon the stationary machine market in favour of concentrating exclusively on the design and construction of power and air tools.
1976
WST 150 eccentric sander
Greater material removal capacity than ever before: The first eccentric sander with integrated extraction was brought to market.
1979
ROTEX RO 1
Simply switch over and get started: The option to switch from coarse to fine sanding made it easier for the tradesman to switch between working steps. From this point onwards, a machine could be used both for tougher coarse sanding and ultra-fine sanding. Today, the ROTEX is still considered the high-performance all-rounder for carpenters, painters and automotive paint shops.
Patent: 2938704, application in 1979
1980
AT 55 E portable circular saw
Precise cuts: Users are thrilled by the combination of portable circular saw and guide rail. The first guide rail featuring a rubber lip as splinterguard, designed to create a splinter-free cutting edge and easy to position on the scribe mark. The guide rail and plunge-cut saw became indispensable to carpenters.
Patent 1980: 3007310
Patent 1982: Splinterguard 3243564
1980
AXF 45 plunge-cut saw
Plunge and saw more reliably: The AXF 45 was the first in a series of successful Festo – and later Festool – plunge-cut saws. From this point on, together with the guide rail, cuts could be made with an unprecedented level of precision.
Patent 1980: 3007310
1983
Festo turns blue
1983 saw a further modification when the logo was turned blue.
1984
PS1 pendulum jigsaw
Leading in precision: The adjustable guidance jaws in the table made it possible to cut right-angles even in very thick pieces of wood. The jigsaw therefore became a precision tool for the discerning carpenter.
1986
Neidlingen plant
Recipient of multiple awards for "Factory of the year" and long-standing birthplace of tools for the toughest demands.
1992
Expanded company logo
The FESTO logo was expanded at the start of the 1990s to include the term "TOOLTECHNIC" – in order to disassociate the company from FESTO Pneumatic.
1993
Festo SYSTAINER SYS Classic
The most beautiful "toolbox" in the world: The SYSTAINER – winner of the Innovation Award and other product design awards – guarantees that tools are well-organised and protected, and since its launch has won the hearts of ambitious tradespeople all over the world.
1996
CDD 12 cordless drill
Compact, robust, powerful: The CDD 12 cordless drill.
2000
New Festool brand
Festo Tooltechnic becomes the independent Festool brand and confirms loyalty to specialist shops.
2000
Relocation to Wendlingen
In 2000, we celebrated our 75th anniversary at the new site in Wendlingen.
2000
PS 300 pendulum jigsaw
Triple saw blade guide – tool-free saw blade changing: Precise work could be refined even further using the PS 300, which could also be combined with a tool-free saw blade changing system. The jigsaw is the carpenter's most commonly used tool.
2002
RS 100 Q gear-driven sander
Well-balanced centre of gravity for perfect results and non-tiring work.
2003
Circular saw TS 55
The living legend: The first plunge-cut saw with attachable splinterguard and a saw blade changing system with a safety lock for increased safety. It has long been synonymous with ultra-precise sawing.
2004
Router OF 1400
Rocker and ratchet principle for convenient cutter changes – as fast as it gets.
2005
RO 150 EQ geared eccentric sander
Three sander functions combined in one tool: Coarse sanding, fine sanding, polishing.
2006
Joining machine DOMINO DF 500
Significantly greater stability and speed: For carpenters everywhere, the DOMINO jointer redefined easy and rapid timber joining. The prefabricated, rotationally fixed dowel facilitates the easy and rapid production of edges and corner joints using high precision.
2007
Sliding compound mitre saw KAPEX KS 120
The first Festool-quality compound mitre saw: The KAPEX KS 120. Quality down to the finest detail. Dual ball bearing-mounted double column guide for unique precision, and much more.
2009
mobile dust extractor 36 E
Clean and healthy working thanks to the large container volume yet compact design. Maximum utilisation of the container volume – the gross volume is the same as the net volume. For every requirement: Option of individually upgrading with an additional socket or compressed air module.
2009
LHS 225 EQ long-reach sander
Two lengths, one machine – extend or reduce in a few simple hand movements. Two-speed gears for efficient, rapid material removal on walls and ceilings.
2009
MyFestool
Festool introduces the customer portal MyFestool. Here, customers can access and manage custom content for their Festool products. Thanks to the continuous expansion of the portal, options like online repair or various digital functions for Festool machines are available.
2012
SYSTAINER T-LOC
Lock. Open. connect With a single turn. SYSTAINER SYS T-LOC – This is how intelligent organisation can be.
2012
pendulum jigsaw PSC 420 EB
Outstanding curve control with triple saw blade guide and torsion-resistant lifting rod.
2013
DSC AG 230 diamond cutting system
Cutting system with efficient dust extraction, protects health. Can be used on Festool guide rails for precise cuts. Safe guidance along the workpiece thanks to guide table with easy-running rollers. A viewing window also provides a clear view of the cutting line. Thanks to the plunge cut function, you can start cutting at any point on the material.
2013
Cordless drills QUADRIVE
Power, power and more power: The QUADRIVE series impresses with compelling power when screwdriving and inimitable precision when drilling. Just like all cordless drills, it features a FastFix interface to switch to CENTROTEC tool chucks within a matter of seconds for ultimate flexibility.
2013
UNIVERS SSU 200 sword saw
An innovative multi-talent: Whether it is wood or insulating material, the UNIVERS sword saw cuts all common materials in wooden structures up to 200 mm thick. The guide rail ensures straight, splinter-free trimming, longitudinal, mitre and compound cutting with ease. Ideal for construction sites: 200 mm cutting depth with a weight of 6.5 kg.
2013
SERVICE all-inclusive
Festool is the first and only provider in the sector to introduce a free three-year warranty package, which also includes all wear parts and protection against theft, and thus protects customers from unplanned costs within the first three years.
2014
Edge bander CONTURO KA 65
The system for the perfect edge. For furniture edging that is worthy of being called "perfect": Developed for the perfect edge finish. For classic furniture edging or manufacturing shaped parts with convex or concave curves. For all wood, melamine or plastic edging.
2014
Oscillator VECTURO OS 400
Precise cuts along the scribe mark with the positioning aid, defined cuts with depth stop that can be adjusted without the need for a tool or flush cuts to the wall with a sliding shoe that can be mounted without a tool. Powerful 400-watt motor with electronic speed adjustment switch for consistently fast working progress.
2015
90 years of Festool
The family company Festool celebrates its 90th anniversary.
The image on the right shows Barbara Austel, company partner and granddaughter of Berta and Gottlieb Stoll.
2015
The CTL SYS Systainer extractor expands the extractor range with a compact and simultaneously powerful product, which is integrated into the Systainer system.
2015
The range is expanded in the area of redevelopment, renovation and modernisation with the DSC-AG 125 FH freehand cutting system, with which cutting work on floor tiles, the ground, screed and concrete can be optimally achieved.
2015
Festool expands its saw range – the two new circular saws demonstrate their versatility in timber construction through their suitability for use with the guide rail and cross cutting guide rail systems.
2015
Modern LED technology is used for the SYSLITE DUO construction light, which ensures homogeneous lighting at the workplace with a light output of 8000 lumen.
2016
The cordless range is expanded with the SYSROCK construction site radio, which ensures outstanding sound even in large spaces with a Bluetooth® interface and as an optional version with DAB+ reception.
2016
Festool is demonstrating its system expertise in the industry with the new generation of the CLEANTEC connecting system. A firm connection between a mobile dust extractor and power tool reliably and smoothly achieves a dust-free, healthy working environment.
2016
With the KAPEX KS 60, Festool launches a mobile, handy and flexible sliding compound mitre saw. With ergonomic carrying handles, practical cable winding and transport safety device, the KS 60 is ideal for assembly tasks.
2016
The PLANEX easy long-reach sander is light, robust and intuitive in operation when evenly sanding ceilings and walls. The brushless EC-TEC motor sits on the header here, and transfers power directly to the sanding pad.
2017
With the 18-volt system, Festool provides an extensive range of cordless power tools capable of accomplishing the most important work associated with timber construction. The range of powerful machines and compatible battery packs with innovative Airstream technology is constantly expanded.
2017
The STL 450 surface control light supplements the SYSLITE family with a further aid. The "magic wand" for quality control shows defects and irregularities on surfaces, and prevents reworking.
2017
Festool pulls the plug – the corded RTS, DTS and ETS compact sanders are each supplemented by a cordless version, where the new 18-volt system is used.
2017
Festool guarantees fast, clean and mobile cuts with the ISC 240 cordless insulation saw. The 18-volt saw can cut flexible insulating materials such as mineral and natural fibre materials, as well as polyurethane, polystyrene and hard mineral fibre boards.
2018
As a stable worktop with flexible fastening options, the system solution of the MW 1000 mobile workshop combines semi-stationary work with an efficient organisation and transport system.
2018
Specially for mobile use, Festool expands its extractor range with three particularly handy and clever aids for health and cleanliness with the CT MINI and the CT MIDI compact dust extractor.
2018
TTS Tooltechnic Systems AG & Co. KG takes over the US company Shaper Tools Inc., consequently expanding their technological competence in the area of digitalisation. Shaper Tools develops the hand-guided "Origin" CNC router.
2019
Festool expands their range of cordless tools by adding the new OSC 18 cordless oscillator for fitting and assembly work. The innovative StarlockMax tool holder allows convenient tool changing.
2019
The Systainer³ is developed by Festool and Tanos in cooperation with bott, the specialist in high-quality vehicle equipment, and enables maximum mobility with numerous practical functions.
2020
Brushless EC-TEC motor, 4.0 Ah Li-HighPower battery pack and tangential hammer mechanism without back torque: The TID 18 cordless impact screwdriver is robust and enables non-tiring work.
2020
Festool puts a mobile edge sander (mains-powered or cordless version) on the market for sanding corners as easily and effectively as possible.
2020
As a global innovation, the Festool table saw reduces the risk of the most serious cutting injuries. It thus protects the most valuable hand tool – your fingers. The sensitive sensor system of the integrated SawStop AIM technology measures contact with human skin, stops the saw blade in less than five milliseconds and disappears into the machine bench.
2020
The newest band member of the Festool sound family goes by the name of TOPROCK. The Bluetooth® speaker is integrated in the Systainer³ lid and creates true sound quality.
2020
The PLANEX long-reach sander with circumferential LED light ring highlights unevenness when sanding, thereby revolutionising wall and ceiling sanding.
2021
Power like from the socket – the SYS-PowerStation supplies 1500 watt-hours at 3680 watts continuous output and a stable mains voltage of 230 volts, therefore enabling mobile working independently of a power source.
2021
Festool develops the intelligent KickbackStop function, thus taking a further important step when it comes to occupational safety. KickbackStop protects against dangerous kickbacks when working with the plunge-cut saw.
2021
The TSC 55 cordless plunge-cut saw is not lacking anything compared with a mains-powered machine when it comes to cutting performance. In addition, KickbackStop protects against injuries. If there is kickback when plunge-cutting into the material, the saw blade stops immediately.
2021
A step in the direction of the IoT with the launch of Festool Connected: The Festool apps help with setting the networked tools, grant access to warranty and performance data, and simplify specialist trade orders.
2021
The construction of the new installation hall with a connected office building in Weilheim an der Teck is completed. The new premises offer space for 300 workers and do even greater justice to the larger production volume resulting from Festool growth. Sustainability aspects were specifically considered when planning the building. For example, it covers its own electricity needs with a photovoltaic system
2021
Almost 60 years ago, Festool invented the first guide rail – and it has been being perfected ever since. With the FS 2.0, sawing work on the wall can also be carried out thanks to integrated adhesive pads.
2021
The two cordless screwdrivers, QUADRIVE TPC and TDC 18/4, expand the cordless range and offer four gears for each application. The electronic KickbackStop prevents your wrist from twisting.
Tradition is mandatory. Family unites.
The Festool family company