SK Professional Tools, a wholly-owned subsidiary of IDEAL INDUSTRIES, INC., is completing a "successful" 2017 with the debut of e-commerce and expansion of their mobile distribution network. These developments have management eager to jumpstart 2018 with new product innovations and extended industry partnership, the company says.
“We’re focused on designing, engineering and manufacturing superior tools and providing an industry leading shopping experience for today’s auto techs,” said Jim Davidson, General Manager of SK. “This year we made it easier for techs to find and shop for our tools online (www.sktools.com), while at the same time grew our mobile and brick and mortar distribution networks. We also invested heavily in R&D and manufacturing processes."
“We’ve seen phenomenal results, with record high fill rates, growth in our Industrial channel, and several foundational products launching between the end of this year and the first quarter in 2018,” Davidson said.
E-Commerce and Loyalty Reward Program Launch
In May of 2017, SK launched an e-commerce solution, offering techs "easy, intuitive" access to SK’s full line of more than 3,000 products ranging from: drive tools, bits and specialty sockets, wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers, punch & chisels, hammers and additional automotive tools -- all manufactured in the U.S.A.
The SK loyalty program, dubbed the 'SK Club', is a two-tiered system (free or paid membership options) designed to reward customers with a variety of perks, including: free shipping, birthday rewards, special promotional offers and more.
The website has seen tremendous growth in monthly visitors, loyalty program sign-ups and sales over the past six-months, according to Davidson. Site metrics continue to improve month over month, and with record high fill rates, as SK has proven itself to meet customer demand through immediate stock availability.
Ongoing Product Innovation
The 3/8" Drive LP90 was released in July 2017. The 90-tooth ratcheting mechanism provides a low 4-degree arc swing, in addition to a low-profile head allowing for easy access in the tightest of spaces compared to classic ratcheting heads. The 1/2" and 1/4" Drive LP90 ratcheting wrenches will be available in early 2018.
SK fans can also anticipate the release of additional new product lines in early 2018, including the new DT series ratchet, a technological upgrade to the existing classic ratchet.
Extension of NHRA Hool Brothers Partnership
SK announced it is continuing its relationship with K&K Motorsports for the 2018 NHRA season. The Wyoming-based Hool brothers of K&K Motorsports compete in the Top Alcohol Funny Car division of the NHRA. The Hool Brothers wrapped the 2017 season with a strong 7th place finish in the National Lucas Oil Series points standings. Highlights include three semi-final finishes; three-second place finishes and a win in Richmond, Virginia.
“We are very excited to continue our support of K&K Motorsports and the Hool brothers,” Davidson said. “Since 2014, we’ve been the primary sponsor and tool provider for their racing operations. The Hool brothers exemplify our family values and have played an integral role in showcasing how our tools truly hold up in high-stress, fast-paced environments.”
“SK has truly been a valued marketing partner and we are thrilled to sign with them as our primary partner again for the 2018 season,” said Kevin Hool, K&K Motorsports Crew Chief. “The support we receive from SK has been first class in every way. We hope to continue the momentum of the past 4 years and help build SK to the premier tool brand in America and beyond. SK and K&K Motorsports together, are in a perfect position to make that happen.”
