LENOX named leading saw blade and tool manufacturer by MassEcon

Date: 9/25/2013

EAST LONGMEADOW – MassEcon recently named LENOX, a leading manufacturer of premium band saw blades, power tool accessories and hand tools, as one of the 23 companies from across the state to have been selected as finalists for the 2013 Team Massachusetts Economic Impact Awards. The awards celebrate companies that have made an outstanding contribution to the Massachusetts economy.

“We are thrilled to recognize the businesses in Massachusetts that are expanding,” Susan Houston, executive director, MassEcon, said. “During our 20th anniversary year, it is particularly gratifying to pay our respects to companies who contribute so much to the prosperity of Massachusetts. We’re fortunate in the Commonwealth to have a diverse economy, and these companies demonstrate that growth is not confined to a particular region or industry.”

LENOX Tools was founded in 1915 with a 10-employee team and a passion for manufacturing hacksaw blades that cut faster and last longer. Nearly 100 years later, the company has grown to more than 900 people who manufacture and market the LENOX products in more than 70 countries.

LENOX Tools’ existing 301 Chestnut St. facility in East Longmeadow boasts a 535,000 square foot, 11-acre space for designing, research and development, testing and manufacturing power tool accessories, hand tools and band saw blades. As a result of significant growth, LENOX Tools expanded its manufacturing operations to a warehouse it owns one street over, utilizing 35,000 square feet. Subsequently LENOX leased an additional 15,000 square feet in a warehouse also located in East Longmeadow which now houses a state of the art, high speed wire drawing, forming and sizing operation that was previously at the 301 Chestnut St. facility.

“We are committed to serving and supporting our local business community, whether it’s our involvement in the diverse civic organizations or adding 155 employees to our company. It’s an honor to have these efforts recognized by MassEcon,” Rich Wuerthele, LENOX president, said.

MassEcon selected the 23 finalists based on their job growth, facility expansion, and investment since Jan. 1, as well as other criteria including community involvement. Together this year’s finalists have added more than 2,400 jobs to the Commonwealth, invested nearly $250 million, and expanded their facilities by more than 1.7 million square feet since January 2012.

The winners from each of the five regions will be announced in October and recognized at an awards luncheon on Nov. 26 in Boston.