Festool History and Innovations

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Green Festool logo with bold, block-style lettering on a white background

History
Since 1925: always a step ahead

The history of the Festool name is the history of a vision, and of a consistent company philosophy focused on the needs of users. 

The company was founded in 1925 by Albert Fezer and Gottlieb Stoll in southern Germany. Ever since their goal has been to offer the expert tradesman tools to make daily work better and easier. This effort has led to numerous technological breakthroughs like the first portable chainsaw and has made Festool a leader in innovation, expertise, and quality. 

During the past 76 years, techniques, technology and the work you do have all changed. festool has been one of the drivers of this change, with major innovations all along the way. They’ve focused on the needs of the skilled trades, and are proud of the close relationship they enjoy with their users. 

As they developed, so did their logo and name. Festo has been changed to Festool, better reflecting what they’re all about – tools. The name has changed, but their commitment has not. They will continue to give you the best in technology, quality and results, with tools that are like nothing else. 

Innovations

Vintage Festool power tool with dust extraction attachment for woodworking tasks

1929 The first portable chainsaw is developed by Festo. Where would we be without it?

Compact electric palm sander with rectangular sanding pad and black handle in workshop setting

1951 World premiere! Festo brings the first orbital sander to the market, revolutionizing surface treatment. 

Festool track saw cutting a wooden board with guide rail in workshop setting

1964 A landmark in on-site precision: Festo introduces the portable circular saw with guide rail.

Compact yellow and black Festool handheld track saw with guide rail attachment for precise woodworking cuts

1967 The first false joint saw, made by Festo, simplifies work and improves results.

Yellow and black Festool random orbital sander with dust extraction port attached

1976 New definition of the finishing touch: Festo develops the first random orbital sander to market maturity.

Festool electric jigsaw with ergonomic handle and dust extraction port in workshop setting

1984 More precision from Festo: The jigsaw with triple blade guide for precision cuts.

Corded Festool random orbital sander with ergonomic handle and dust extraction port

1984 A versatile achievement: The dual-mode Rotex RO 150 E for outstanding surface results with a single tool, from rough sanding to fine finishing.

Stacked Festool Systainer storage boxes with green latches in workshop setting

1993 Indispensable as a transport and organizing system, it won many awards: the Festo Systainer is here.

Cordless Festool drill driver with ergonomic grip and keyless chuck for woodworking tasks

1994 The shortest rechargeable drill/screwdriver in its class can fit into any corner.

Compact Festool CT 26 dust extractor with wheels and hose connection for workshop use

1999 CT mobile dust extractors - the new dimension.

Festool electric detail sander with dust extraction hose attached on white background

2000 The Festool LS 130 Linear Sander is the first professional sander for profiles and edges.

Cordless drill and impact driver set with two battery packs on white background

2001 Cordless drill with FastFix interchangeable chucks.

Cordless drill driver with ergonomic grip and compact design for woodworking tasks

2005 The C12 is the world's first cordless drill with a brushless, electronically commutated motor.

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