"Magician" wrote in message
oups.com...
Andy, with respect, you are missing the plot completely.

First of all, cheaper power tools are fine for many applications.
Horses for courses.

I've always wanted a biscuit joiner, but for many years they have been
completely outside of my price range as a serious DIYer. Now they
arent, I can justify spending £40 on one. Wouldn't last the week out
in a joinery shop, but it will give me years of service.

Secondly, there is a huge difference between 'cheaply made' and 'made
cheaply'.

For years the big boys in power tools have made huge margins and with
huge margins come huge expenses. Sales meetings in Spain, top of the
range company cars, hospitality etc. Now the big boys operate in the
real world and watch costs like a hawk.

Manufacturing techniques have also changed, JIT, L.E.A.N. etc.
Structural plastics have arrived.

I work for a multi national equipment manufacturer. In the last 5
years we have turned to L.E.A.N. manufacturing, outsourcing non
critical components to eastern Europe, use of advanced moulding
techniques etc. Our costs & prices have dropped by 30% - quality has
improved overall.

Dave


I see the likes of Makita do have the odd tool that is competitive. Their
margin must have been hit hard. I know many pros who buy mid price range
DIY stuff. They know it will not last 10 years, but don't expect it to
either. They do the job. Thyey just want to drive screws or drill holes,
that's all, not make a statement.



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