A&E Tools, a leader in the manufacturing of automotive and industrial specialty hand and diagnostic tools, announced the kickoff of its 80th Anniversary celebration. The anniversary will be a highlight of its presence at the AAPEX 2011 Show in Las Vegas, November 1-3.
Daniel M. Lang, a former engineer at Snap-on Tools, began producing and selling thickness gauges and honing stones in 1932. Production was first handled in Mr. Lang’s home! During World War II, A&E provided the government with 37mm fuses and precision parts for local electrical equipment. Shortly thereafter, they patented a Ratcheting Box Wrench, improved their line of thickness gauges, and added socket wrenches and hydraulic valve lifter tools.
Following Daniel M. Lang as President in 1960, John W. Lang brought many tool innovations to the market, including the Offset Ratcheting Box Wrench. His son, John R. Lang, became president in 1982, and began a strategy of acquisition to help the company better serve its customers’ needs. Daniel Peterson became the first non-family chief operating officer in 1990, and was succeeded in 2009 by industry veteran Al Biland. John Wm. (Ian) Lang is the family’s fourth generation in company leadership, currently serving as A&E’s vice president of marketing and product management.
A&E remains committed to the automotive and industrial specialty tool industry. As the company looks back on its 80 years of history, it also looks ahead to continuing to serve the industry with the highest quality tools, produced by a dedicated, customer-driven American workforce. In commemoration of its 80th year, they are launching a new brand for products to place the family name right on them – Lang Tools. The Lang Family Foundation, founded in 1996, supports industry and community education, social services, and the arts, and is headed by Sandra Lang.
A&E Tools is a leading manufacturer of automotive and industrial specialty hand and diagnostic tools. Founded in 1932, A&E continues to be privately owned and operated, with fourth generation family management engaged in the business. Headquartered in Racine, Wisconsin, A&E distributes its products through mobile jobbers, hardware stores, automotive chain stores, and warehouse distributors around the globe. For more information on A&E products, history, contact information and current news, visit www.aeincorporated.com.
