Professional Builder charts Metabo’s history and looks at how its spirit of innovation continues to ensure its position as a global leader in its field.
The Metabo story began in 1923 in Nürtingen, Germany, when Albrecht Schnizler developed the first handheld drill – the No.18. In early 1924 Schnizler, along with Julius Closs, the son of a Nürtingen brewer, founded Schnizler GmbH. The company was later called Metabo, a name derived from metallbohrdreher, or metal drill.
The remainder of the 1920s saw an expansion of the product range, introducing more sophisticated tools to meet the growing demands of various industries. In 1932, the company moved to a larger factory to accommodate increasing production and, despite the economic challenges of the Great Depression, Metabo managed to sustain growth, thanks in part to the development of the first handheld electric drill with one-handed operation – a significant innovation at the time.
The 1940s were dominated by the challenges of World War II. Production was affected, but the company managed to continue its operations, focusing on post-war rebuilding. During this time, it introduced its first metalworking tools, which quickly gained popularity due to their robustness and precision. In 1953, the first angle grinder was developed – the low-speed grinder No.763 – a tool that would become a cornerstone of the product line and has remained so until this day. In 1966 the company refined this product by introducing a safety clutch, while this period also saw the introduction of the first electronic drill with variable speed control.
During the 1970s, Metabo diversified its product portfolio to include woodworking and construction tools. In 1981, the German manufacturer launched its first cordless drills, and continued to make advancements in battery technology, leading to longer run times and more powerful cordless tools. The 1990s saw greater emphasis on ergonomics and user comfort, with the launch of the Quick series, featuring tools that allow for rapid accessory changes, significantly improving productivity and ease of use. The decade also witnessed the introduction of electronic controls in power tools, enhancing their efficiency, precision and safety.
Upon entering the new millennium, attention was turned to sustainability by developing tools with reduced energy consumption and longer lifespans. In 2002, the first tool with an integrated dust extraction system was introduced, addressing the growing concern for workplace safety, while the integration of digital technology, such as brushless motors and smart battery management systems, further advanced its offering.
During the 2010s Metabo focused on consolidation and growth and in 2012 it introduced the world’s first 18V battery pack with 4.0Ah capacity – giving it 33 per cent more capacity than the 3.0Ah batteries commonly used up to that time. The company continued to innovate in this area with the launch of lithium-ion high density (LiHD) battery technology in 2015, providing unprecedented power by delivering more than 1,000W of continuous power in the 18V class.
For much of its existence Metabo was a typical mid-sized family business but 2016 saw a significant development when the company was acquired by HiKOKI Power Tools, part of the international Koki Holdings Group. It was a move that expanded its resources and global reach, while maintaining its commitment to quality and innovation. True to its roots, the Nürtingen headquarters still manufactures its range of power tools.
Throughout 2024, Metabo is hosting a series of campaigns to celebrate its rich history and future aspirations under the motto Building our world. Together. The focus continues to be on the needs of the end user, driving the development of tools that not only meet but exceed user expectations, with smart solutions and technological advancements like the WPB 36-18 LTX BL 24-230 Quick angle grinder, which delivers the power of a 2,400W plug-in tool using two 18V batteries. Also, as a founding member of the Cordless Alliance System (CAS), the world’s first cross-manufacturer battery pack system, Metabo offers users the convenience of a single battery powering over 400 devices.
From its inception in a small German workshop to its current status as a global powerhouse, Metabo’s history is a remarkable tale of innovation, resilience, excellence and the pursuit of customer satisfaction. It has not only adapted to the changing needs of its customers but has also set new standards in the industry, ensuring its place as a trusted name in the power tools sector. This journey reflects its unwavering commitment to quality and, as the company looks to the future, it will continue to build on its rich legacy, driving forward with the same passion and dedication that have defined its first 100 years.
For more information on Metabo‘s centenary celebrations, product promotions, and to explore the company’s rich history and forward-looking innovations, visit 100 years of Metabo | Metabo Power Tools.
