Global Changes, Local Impact: The Future of UK Roadies’ Favourite Tool Brands

Industry Changes

21 Apr

Black-and-white photo of stage lights lined up on event decking, ready for setup at a live production.

Things are shifting fast in the world of tools, and if you’re working behind the scenes—especially in touring or set carpentry—you’ve probably going to feel it. From new US tariffs to rising UK inflation and shifting trade rules, it’s not just headlines anymore. These changes are starting to hit the brands we rely on, and the price tags that come with them.

So, what does all this mean for the tools in your hands? Let’s take a look at some of the most popular brands used by UK roadies and set carpenters, and how they’re likely to be affected.

Milwaukee

Milwaukee’s a solid favourite across the board—great performance, serious reliability, and loads of options. But most of their manufacturing is US-based, which makes them one of the brands directly in the firing line of new trade tariffs. Pair that with a rising dollar and increasing raw material costs, and it’s not looking too cheap going forward.

Estimated cost change: +10–15%

(rough guess based on recent trends and manufacturing locations)

Makita

Makita’s a bit more protected, since most of their production happens in Japan and Europe. But with increased shipping costs and higher operating expenses in the UK, even Makita users aren’t totally safe. We’ve already seen some modest price bumps, and the squeeze could continue.

Estimated cost change: +5–10%

(depending on product line and import origin)

DeWalt

DeWalt’s part of Stanley Black & Decker, and they’re juggling a bit right now. They’ve got manufacturing all over—from the US to China to the UK—but recent financial pressure has led to production slowdowns. Combine that with American tariffs and raw material shortages, and prices are definitely on the up.

Estimated cost change: +10–20%

(varies by product and import route)

Bosch

Bosch has a wide reach in terms of manufacturing, and they’ve got a good reputation for maintaining stable pricing. That said, even they’re feeling the pressure from increased European energy costs and the general inflation wave in the UK. The knock-on effect? Subtle, but noticeable price increases.

Estimated cost change: +5–10%

(less severe but still climbing)

Festool

Top-tier tools come with top-tier price tags—Festool users know that. Most of their stuff is made in Germany, so they're not directly hit by US tariffs. But rising manufacturing costs and the strength of the euro are pushing up prices all the same. If you like Festool, expect to pay even more soon.

Estimated cost change: +10–15%

(premium price staying premium)

HiKOKI

HiKOKI’s big in the value-for-money bracket, especially in Europe. They’re not a major US importer, which gives them some breathing room. But like the others, increased costs on raw materials and energy prices in Japan and Europe are creeping in. They might remain competitive, but don’t expect prices to hold forever.

Estimated cost change: +3–8%

(still decent for budget-conscious buyers)

Erbauer

Erbauer sits more in the affordable, entry-level category and is exclusive to Screwfix. They’re often assembled from parts sourced worldwide, which makes them sensitive to global supply disruptions. If you’re after affordable gear, this might be where price jumps will hit the hardest—there’s just less margin to absorb costs.

Estimated cost change: +10–20%

(affordable tools seeing big relative jumps)

So What’s the Takeaway?

Tool prices are going up. Some brands are getting hit harder than others, but whether it’s US tariffs, energy costs, or raw material shortages, nearly everyone’s affected. For roadies and set carpenters, it might be worth checking whether your go-to brand is still the best value—and maybe grabbing spares before prices climb any higher.

If you’re keen to keep your kit in top shape without breaking the bank, now might be the time to plan ahead.