Festool announced that it has started producing its FS Guide Rails, an integral system component and accessory of many of its power tools, at the company’s North American headquarters in Lebanon, IN. The company states that there are plans to expand its newly launched production line to include additional products in the future. FS Guide Rails production uses U.S.-sourced material and will begin shipping throughout the U.S. and Canadian markets in late 2017.
Essential to the Festool power tool system, FS Guide Rails are aluminum tracks that work in collaboration with some of Festool’s most popular products, including its track saws, routers and jigsaws.
“German engineering and American manufacturing is a powerful combination,” says Ole Held, CEO of Festool USA. “Launching a U.S. production line will allow us to expand the Festool presence in North America and strengthen our commitment to create innovative, precise, superior quality products.” Festool designs and engineers its portfolio of innovative power tool products in its home country of Germany and all Festool power tools are manufactured in Europe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will this affect the pricing?
No. There are currently no plans to either increase or decrease the pricing of the FS Guide Rails based the new production line.
Will this affect the quality of the FS Guide Rails?
No. Our new U.S. production operations are being developed and managed by people who are closely involved in Festool’s European production. Festool’s commitment to quality and excellence remains the same.
Will this include the FSK Guide Rails for the HK 55 and HKC 55?
No. The FS Guide Rails and FSK Guide Rails require different production lines. The newly launched production will be used exclusively used for the FS Guide Rails that are used with tools such as the TS 55, TS 75, TSC 55, routers and jigsaws.
Will other products be made in the U.S.? If so, which ones?
Yes, we fully intend to expand our U.S. production operations. As part of Festool’s commitment to the North American market, the FS Guide Rail production line is the first step to producing more products domestically.
We will announce which products will be produced in the U.S. as those lines launch.
Will all of Festool’s FS Guide Rails be made in the U.S.?
No. Only products sold for the U.S. and Canada will be made in North America. FS Guide Rails sold outside of North America will continue to be produced in Europe.
Why is Festool beginning operations in the U.S.?
For several years, Festool has been committed to growing throughout North America. Bringing some of our production within closer proximity to our North American dealers and customers is one piece of that.
We welcome the new Indiana facility into the Woodcraft family of fine vendors and look forward to bringing you more of Festool's highest quality woodworking tools to Help You Make Wood Work.
