Who Owns Flex?
Flex is owned by Chervon, a Chinese multinational power tools manufacturer. The brand was established in 1922 and specializes in professional-grade power tools and equipment. Chervon is headquartered in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China.
Parent Company
Chervon Holdings
Acquired
2014
Status
Private
Headquarters
Steinheim an der Murr, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
Who Owns Flex?
- Parent Company: Chervon Holdings
- Ownership Type: Wholly owned
- Acquisition Year: 2014
- Company Type: Publicly Traded
- Stock Ticker: HKEX: 2285
| Brand | Parent Company | Ownership Type |
|---|---|---|
| Flex | Chervon Holdings | Wholly owned |
History of Flex
- Founded: 1922
- Founders: Flex-Elektrowerkzeuge GmbH
- Acquired by Chervon Holdings: 2014
Flex was founded in 1922 by Hermann Ackermann and Hermann Schmitt in Stuttgart-Bad Cannstatt, Germany. This founding vision demonstrated exceptional insight into the growing demand for professional power tools while establishing a distinctive approach that would define the power tools category for generations. The company initially produced flexible shaft machines for metalworking, and the brand name "Flex" was derived from these flexible shaft tools. In 1954, Flex invented the first high-speed angle grinder, the DL 9, which revolutionized metalworking and construction. This strategic positioning demonstrated Flex's exceptional ability to create differentiated power tool solutions while maintaining consistent brand positioning and quality standards that would define the brand for decades. The angle grinder became so synonymous with the Flex brand that in many German-speaking countries, "Flex" became the generic term for angle grinders, similar to how "Hoover" is used for vacuum cleaners in the UK.
Throughout the latter half of the 20th century, Flex established itself as a premium German manufacturer of professional power tools, particularly renowned for its grinders, polishers, and metalworking tools. This period of excellence demonstrated Flex's exceptional ability to scale operations while maintaining consistent brand positioning and quality standards across multiple power tool segments. The brand earned a strong reputation among professional tradespeople in Europe for exceptional build quality, durability, and precision engineering. Flex tools were specified by professionals in automotive refinishing, metal fabrication, and construction. This strategic diversification demonstrated Flex's exceptional ability to serve multiple professional segments while maintaining its core brand identity and market leadership in the power tools industry.
In 2013, Chervon Holdings Limited, a major Chinese power tool manufacturer, acquired Flex-Elektrowerkzeuge GmbH. This strategic integration demonstrated Flex's exceptional ability to integrate into larger power tool corporations while maintaining its core brand identity and cultural significance in the power tools industry. The acquisition gave Chervon access to Flex's German engineering expertise and premium brand positioning, while providing Flex with Chervon's manufacturing scale and global distribution capabilities. This strategic partnership demonstrated Flex's exceptional ability to leverage corporate resources while maintaining its distinct power tool identity and market leadership. Under Chervon's ownership, Flex has expanded aggressively into the North American market, launching a comprehensive 24V cordless tool platform designed to compete directly with established brands like DeWalt, Milwaukee, and Makita.
The Flex 24V cordless platform, introduced in the early 2020s, has been well-received by professional contractors for its power output and build quality. This continued evolution demonstrated Flex's exceptional ability to maintain market relevance while adapting to changing power tool requirements and technological advancements. Flex has also maintained its heritage products including professional polishers and grinders while developing new categories including cordless outdoor power equipment. This continued excellence demonstrates Flex's exceptional ability to maintain market leadership while adapting to changing power tools dynamics and corporate requirements. The brand continues to manufacture key products at its facility in Steinheim an der Murr, Germany, while leveraging Chervon's manufacturing capabilities for its expanding cordless tool lineup. This continued success represents a significant milestone in the evolution of professional power tools and consumer-focused equipment solutions.
About Chervon Holdings
Chervon Holdings Limited designs, manufactures, and distributes power tools and outdoor power equipment across global markets. The company operates through three primary segments: Power Tools, Outdoor Power Equipment (OPE), and ODM manufacturing services. Chervon's manufacturing capabilities are comparable to industry leaders such as Bosch, Makita, and Milwaukee, and the company has produced tools for several of these brands as an OEM manufacturer.
The company has invested heavily in lithium-ion battery technology and cordless tool innovation, positioning the EGO brand as a market leader in battery-powered outdoor equipment. Chervon employs thousands of workers across its manufacturing facilities and maintains research and development centers focused on motor technology, battery systems, and product design. The company's products are distributed through major retail channels and professional dealer networks worldwide.
- Founded: 1993
- Headquarters: Nanjing, China
- Company Type: Publicly Traded
- Stock: HKEX: 2285
- Revenue: not publicly disclosed
Where Is Flex Made / Based?
- Headquarters: Steinheim an der Murr, Baden-Württemberg, Germany
- Manufacturing / Operations: Germany, China, Europe
Flex Sustainability & Ethics
Flex operates under Chervon's comprehensive sustainability framework, focusing on environmental responsibility in power tools manufacturing, ethical business practices, and sustainable innovation in the professional tools industry. As a German-engineered brand with over 100 years of heritage, Flex demonstrates commitment to sustainability while maintaining its reputation for quality and performance.
Sustainable Manufacturing and Environmental Responsibility: Flex implements sustainable manufacturing practices across its production facilities in Germany, China, and other locations. The brand focuses on reducing environmental impact through energy-efficient manufacturing processes, waste reduction initiatives, and responsible material sourcing. Chervon's broader sustainability framework guides Flex's environmental programs, including carbon footprint reduction and resource efficiency improvements.
Responsible Sourcing and Supply Chain Ethics: Flex maintains strict standards for sourcing raw materials and components used in power tools manufacturing. The brand works with suppliers who meet quality, environmental, and ethical requirements, ensuring responsible supply chain management throughout its global operations. Flex's German engineering heritage includes precision manufacturing standards that align with sustainable production practices.
Product Innovation and Environmental Impact: Flex's 24V cordless platform and Stacked Lithium battery technology represent significant innovations in power tools efficiency and performance. These technologies deliver 200% more power and 300% longer battery life than traditional lithium batteries, reducing the need for frequent battery replacement and extending product lifespan. The 30-minute fast charging capability also reduces energy consumption during charging cycles.
Circular Economy and Product Longevity: Flex designs tools for durability and longevity, supporting circular economy principles by extending product lifespans and reducing waste. The brand's focus on professional-grade tools that outperform and outlast competition aligns with sustainability goals through reduced replacement frequency and longer product life cycles.
Workplace Safety and Ethical Employment: As part of Chervon, Flex maintains comprehensive workplace safety standards and ethical employment practices across its manufacturing facilities. The brand invests in employee training, safe working conditions, and professional development opportunities for its workforce in engineering, manufacturing, and support roles.
Energy Efficiency in Product Design: Flex's power tools are designed for energy efficiency, delivering maximum performance with optimal energy consumption. The brand's battery technology innovations, including intelligent battery management and advanced cooling systems, improve energy efficiency while maintaining professional-grade power output.
Community Engagement and Industry Leadership: Flex participates in industry initiatives focused on sustainable manufacturing and environmental responsibility in the power tools sector. The brand's German engineering heritage includes commitments to precision, quality, and responsible manufacturing that benefit both customers and the broader industry.
Transparency and Corporate Responsibility: Flex maintains transparency about its sustainability practices and corporate responsibility initiatives as part of Chervon's broader ESG reporting framework. The brand's commitment to environmental stewardship and ethical business practices is communicated through corporate channels and industry partnerships.
Awards & Recognition
Flex has received recognition throughout its century-long history for innovation in power tools, engineering excellence, and contributions to the professional tools industry. The brand's invention of the first angle grinder and continued technological advancements have earned numerous accolades from industry organizations and trade associations.
Engineering Innovation and Heritage Recognition: Flex's invention and manufacturing of the world's first angle grinder in 1954 represents a landmark achievement in power tools innovation. This pioneering invention, along with the brand's German engineering heritage, has been recognized as a significant contribution to the tools industry and professional craftsmanship.
Professional Tools Performance Awards: Flex has received recognition from professional trades organizations and industry publications for the performance, durability, and reliability of its power tools. The brand's focus on professional-grade equipment that outworks, outperforms, and outlasts competition has earned praise from construction and trades professionals.
Battery Technology Innovation Recognition: Flex's Stacked Lithium battery technology and 24V cordless platform have received acknowledgment for innovation in power tools battery systems. The technology's ability to deliver 200% more power, 300% longer battery life, and 100% faster charging represents significant advancement in cordless power tools performance.
German Engineering Quality Recognition: Flex's German manufacturing heritage and commitment to precision engineering have been recognized through quality certifications, industry standards compliance, and customer satisfaction ratings. The brand's reputation for quality and performance reflects its engineering excellence and manufacturing standards.
Market Position and Brand Strength: Flex has achieved recognition for its strong market position in the professional power tools segment, particularly in European markets. The brand's ability to maintain relevance and market leadership over more than 100 years demonstrates successful brand management and product innovation.
Chervon Portfolio Recognition: As part of Chervon's portfolio of power tools brands, Flex contributes to the parent company's recognition as a leading global power tools manufacturer. Chervon's investment in Flex's technology and market development has been acknowledged as successful brand integration and growth strategy.
Industry Leadership and Trade Association Recognition: Flex executives and engineering teams are frequently invited to speak at power tools industry conferences, trade shows, and professional development events, recognizing the brand's expertise and leadership in the professional tools sector.
Customer Satisfaction and Professional Endorsement: Flex has received recognition from professional users, trade organizations, and customer satisfaction surveys for its tools' performance, reliability, and innovation. The brand's focus on professional-grade equipment has earned endorsements from construction and trades professionals worldwide.
Flex Recalls & Controversies
Flex has faced challenges typical of the power tools industry, including market competition, retail distribution changes, and the complexities of maintaining brand heritage while adapting to modern manufacturing and market dynamics.
Retail Distribution Challenges (2026): In early 2026, Lowe's announced it would stop carrying Flex Tools, representing a significant retail distribution challenge for the brand. This loss of major retail partnership required Flex to reevaluate its North American distribution strategy and market approach. Industry observers noted that while Flex continues to expand its product lineup internationally, the loss of Lowe's as a retail partner presented significant market access challenges.
Market Positioning and Competition: Flex operates in a highly competitive power tools market, facing competition from established brands like DeWalt, Milwaukee, Makita, and others. The brand must maintain its premium positioning while competing with brands that have larger market share and more extensive retail distribution networks.
Brand Identity and Market Recognition: Despite its German engineering heritage and innovation history, Flex faces challenges in brand recognition compared to more established power tools brands. The brand must balance its heritage as the inventor of the angle grinder with modern marketing and brand positioning strategies.
Manufacturing and Supply Chain Complexity: Flex's global manufacturing operations, spanning Germany, China, and other locations, present ongoing operational challenges. Maintaining consistent quality across different manufacturing facilities while managing global supply chain complexity requires sophisticated quality control and operational management systems.
Technology Adoption and Market Education: Flex's innovative battery technology and cordless platform require market education and user adoption efforts. The brand must communicate the benefits of its Stacked Lithium technology and 24V platform to professional users who may be accustomed to established battery systems from competing brands.
Parent Company Integration Challenges: Following its acquisition by Chervon in 2013, Flex has navigated the challenges of integrating with a Chinese multinational while maintaining its German engineering heritage and brand identity. Balancing Chervon's global strategy with Flex's market positioning and brand heritage presents ongoing management challenges.
Product Development and Innovation Pressure: As a brand known for innovation, Flex faces continuous pressure to develop new technologies and products that maintain its competitive edge. The investment required for research and development while maintaining profitability in the competitive power tools market presents significant business challenges.
Economic Sensitivity and Professional Market Cycles: Flex's focus on professional-grade power tools makes the brand sensitive to economic conditions affecting construction, industrial, and professional trades sectors. Economic downturns and reduced construction activity can impact demand for professional power tools, creating revenue volatility.
Flex Ownership: Pros & Cons
Advantages
- +Access to Chervon's extensive research and development capabilities
- +Strong manufacturing expertise in professional tool production
- +Reliable supply chain and quality control standards
- +Continuous innovation in tool design and battery technology
- +Wide distribution network across Europe and internationally
- +Maintained German engineering heritage and quality standards
Considerations
- -Competition from established tool brands
- -Dependency on Chervon's corporate strategy and supply chain
- -Environmental impact of battery production and disposal
- -Market saturation in developed countries
- -Need for continuous product innovation to maintain competitiveness
- -Warranty and service support dependent on Chervon's infrastructure
Frequently Asked Questions About Flex
Sources & Further Reading
- Flex Tools Official Website -
- Chervon Corporate Website -
- Chervon Flex Brand Information -
- ToolGuyd: Lowe's Flex Tools 2026 Update -
- The Garage Journal: Flex Tools Discussion -
- Reddit Tools Community: Flex Tools Discussion -
- Power Tools Industry Trade Publications -- Market Analysis and Trends
- Professional Tools Magazine -- Industry Recognition and Reviews
- German Engineering Standards Organizations -- Manufacturing Quality Standards
- Construction Industry Trade Publications -- Professional Tools Usage and Reviews
- Chervon Annual Reports -- Corporate Performance and Strategy
- Power Tools Trade Shows and Industry Events -- Product Launches and Innovation
- Occupational Safety and Health Administration -- Power Tools Safety Standards
- International Trade Administration -- Global Manufacturing and Trade Data
- Engineering and Manufacturing Industry Publications -- Technology and Innovation Trends
Competitors to Flex
These competing brands operate in the same categories and provide similar products or services. Compare key attributes to understand market positioning and competitive landscape.
| Brand | Parent Company | Country | Founded | Market Position | Primary Market | Gender Target |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Einhell | Germany | 2010 | Premium | Europe | Unisex | |
| Adani Group | India | 1983 | Mass market | Asia pacific | All-ages | |
| Bluescope Steel | Australia | 1900 | Mass market | Asia pacific | All-ages | |
| Danaher | USA | 2018 | Premium | Global | All-ages | |
| Bluescope Steel | Australia | 1857 | Premium | Asia pacific | All-ages | |
| Bluescope Steel | Australia | 2000 | Premium | Regional | All-ages |
Learn More About Competitors

Erbauer
Owned by Einhell Germany AG
German power tools and equipment brand owned by Einhell, specializing in professional-grade tools for construction and DIY applications.

Ambuja Cement
Owned by Adani Group
Indian cement manufacturer providing construction materials and building solutions, owned by Adani Group.

Fielders
Owned by BlueScope Steel Limited
Australian building products brand owned by BlueScope Steel Limited, founded in 1900 and known for roofing, walling, and structural steel products.

Fortive Corporation
Owned by Danaher Corporation
American industrial technology company providing solutions for professional instrumentation and software, owned by Danaher Corporation.

Lysaght
Owned by BlueScope Steel Limited
Australian building products brand owned by BlueScope Steel Limited, founded in 1857 and known for roofing, walling, and steel products.

Orrcon
Owned by BlueScope Steel Limited
Australian steel tubing and structural products brand owned by BlueScope Steel Limited, founded in 1969.
Competitive Analysis
Market Positioning: Flex competes with 6 brands in the same categories, ranging from mass market to luxury positioning.
Geographic Distribution: Competitors are headquartered across multiple regions, indicating global competition in this market segment.
Brand Heritage: Competitor brands range from established heritage brands to newer market entrants, with founding years spanning several decades.
Chervon Holdings Stock Information
Jobs at Chervon Holdings
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