Tool Shop tools are made for Menards by outside manufacturers, since Tool Shop is a private label brand rather than a standalone company.
The brand serves as Menards’ entry level tool line, sitting below the retailer’s more established Masterforce brand.
Menards owns the Tool Shop trademark but does not manufacture the products itself, sourcing them instead through contract suppliers.
Knowing who makes Tool Shop tools helps buyers understand where the brand sits within Menards’ broader tiered tool lineup.
This article covers Tool Shop ownership, where the tools are manufactured, how the brand compares to Masterforce, and answers to common Tool Shop questions.
So let’s get started.
Table of Contents
Who Makes Tool Shop Tools And Who Owns The Brand?
Tool Shop is a private label brand owned and sold exclusively by Menards.
Menards does not manufacture Tool Shop products itself and instead sources them from a rotating group of contract manufacturers.
The brand serves as Menards’ budget entry point, positioned below the retailer’s Masterforce line in both price and features.
Where Are Tool Shop Tools Manufactured?
Menards has not publicly disclosed a single factory for the Tool Shop line, since production is spread across multiple suppliers.
Like most entry level house brands, Tool Shop products are widely believed to be sourced primarily from overseas manufacturers.
Exactly which factory produces a given Tool Shop item can vary depending on the product category and release year.
How Does Tool Shop Compare To Masterforce?
Masterforce is Menards’ more established, mid tier brand, while Tool Shop targets the budget conscious end of the market.
Customer reviews for Tool Shop products, including items like the Work Sharp knife sharpener sold under the brand, tend to be positive relative to the price.
Shoppers often choose Tool Shop for basic, occasional use tools and reserve Masterforce for products they expect to use more frequently.
What Products Does Tool Shop Sell?
Tool Shop covers hand tools, automotive accessories, and general shop equipment sold across Menards’ tool department.
The brand also includes some specialty items, giving budget conscious shoppers an alternative to name brand equivalents.
Tool Shop remains one of several house brands Menards uses to compete across different price points in its tool aisles.
Tool Shop vs Masterforce: Which Menards Brand Should You Buy?
Masterforce generally offers better warranty coverage and build quality, while Tool Shop wins on upfront price.
Both brands are sourced from outside manufacturers, so quality can vary by specific product rather than brand name alone.
Shoppers buying tools for frequent, heavy use often step up to Masterforce, while occasional use tools are a good fit for Tool Shop.
For a closer look at that comparison, see our guide to who makes Craftsman tools for another widely available comparison point.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tool Shop Tools
Who makes Tool Shop tools?
Tool Shop tools are made for Menards by outside contract manufacturers.
Is Tool Shop a Menards brand?
Yes, Tool Shop is a private label brand owned and sold exclusively by Menards.
Is Tool Shop the same as Masterforce?
No, Tool Shop and Masterforce are separate Menards house brands, with Tool Shop positioned as the more budget friendly option.
Are Tool Shop tools good quality?
Tool Shop tools generally receive positive reviews for the price, though they are considered more basic than Masterforce equivalents.
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.