Hilti tools are made by Hilti Corporation, a family owned Liechtenstein company that has never been acquired by a larger conglomerate.
The brand is known for its distinctive red and black cases and its heavy duty drills, anchoring systems, and demolition equipment used on major construction projects.
Hilti remains privately held through the Martin Hilti Family Trust, making it one of the few major power tool brands not owned by a larger parent company or private equity firm.
Knowing who makes Hilti tools helps buyers understand why the brand commands premium pricing compared to more widely distributed competitors.
This article covers Hilti ownership, where the tools are manufactured, the company’s history, and answers to common Hilti questions.
So let’s get started.
Table of Contents
Who Makes Hilti Tools And Who Owns The Brand?
Hilti was founded in 1941 by brothers Martin and Eugen Hilti in Schaan, Liechtenstein.
The company remains privately held, with registered shares managed by the Martin Hilti Family Trust based in Liechtenstein.
Hilti’s North American headquarters are located in Plano, Texas, serving the professional construction market across the United States.
Where Are Hilti Tools Manufactured?
Hilti operates production plants across Europe, including its original facility in Liechtenstein, along with plants in Hungary, Germany, and Austria.
The company also operates manufacturing facilities in China and Mexico, giving it production capacity across three continents.
This spread of facilities allows Hilti to serve its global professional customer base without relying on a single manufacturing hub.
What Makes Hilti Different From Other Power Tool Brands?
Hilti focuses almost exclusively on the professional construction market rather than selling to DIY consumers.
The company introduced the world’s first powder actuated fastening tool in 1953 and the first electro pneumatic hammer drill in 1967.
Hilti also provides consulting, technical assistance, and fleet management services alongside its tools, a business model that sets it apart from most competitors.
A Brief History Of Hilti
Martin and Eugen Hilti began by producing equipment and components for the automotive industry before shifting toward construction tools.
The company grew into the largest industrial corporation in Liechtenstein, expanding into around thirty countries by the early 1960s.
In 2003, Hilti announced plans to buy back all of its publicly traded shares to return the company to full private ownership.
Hilti vs Makita: Which Independent Tool Brand Is Better?
Makita is a publicly traded Japanese company, while Hilti remains privately owned through a family trust.
Hilti targets professional construction crews almost exclusively, while Makita sells across both professional and DIY consumer markets.
Hilti’s included services and fleet management programs typically come at a premium price compared to Makita’s more traditional retail model.
For more comparisons, see our guide to who makes Makita tools for another independently operated power tool brand.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hilti Tools
Who makes Hilti tools?
Hilti tools are made by Hilti Corporation, a family owned company based in Schaan, Liechtenstein.
Is Hilti owned by a larger company?
No, Hilti remains privately held through the Martin Hilti Family Trust and has never been acquired by a larger conglomerate.
Why are Hilti tools so expensive?
Hilti’s premium pricing reflects its focus on professional construction equipment, along with bundled services like technical support and fleet management.
Where is Hilti headquartered?
Hilti Corporation is headquartered in Schaan, Liechtenstein, with North American headquarters in Plano, Texas.
I am Jack Neel, a mechanical engineer, researcher, and writer. I created this website to share my knowledge about different brands and products with you. I research the manufacturers behind the brands and provide you with the information you need to make smart buying decisions.