Quick Answer
FLEX power tools are made by the German company FLEX-Elektrowerkzeuge GmbH, which has been owned by the Chinese Chervon Group since 2013. Chervon also owns the Ego and Skil brands. The tools are designed with German engineering heritage and manufactured under Chervon’s global operations.
Main Explanation
A German Origin
FLEX was founded in 1922 in Steinheim, Germany, and originally called Ackermann + Schmitt. The company invented the first angle grinder in 1954, a tool that became so iconic in Germany that the brand name "Flex" is sometimes used colloquially for angle grinders and the verb "flexen" for cut-off grinding.
Acquisition by Chervon
In 2013, the Chervon Group acquired FLEX. Chervon is a Chinese holding company that also owns other power tool brands such as Ego (outdoor power equipment) and Skil (consumer and prosumer tools). This acquisition combined FLEX’s German engineering heritage with Chervon’s scale and manufacturing capabilities.
Current Products and Platform
FLEX continues to produce professional-grade power tools. In North America, the brand launched a 24V cordless platform in 2021, marketed as delivering higher power and faster charging. The official U.S. website is flexpowertools.com. FLEX tools are sold at retailers including Lowe's, Grainger, Ames, and Acme Tools.
Note: This article is based on desk research from published sources and does not include hands-on testing of FLEX tools.
Practical Takeaways: Decision Framework
If you are considering FLEX tools and want to determine whether they fit your needs, follow these ordered steps:
- Confirm ownership and parent company – FLEX is owned by Chervon Group, the same company behind Ego and Skil. This means you can expect similar battery platform strategies and potential cross-brand compatibility in the future, though this is not guaranteed.
- Evaluate German engineering heritage – FLEX’s roots are in professional German toolmaking. If you value that legacy, the brand may appeal to you. However, current manufacturing may leverage Chervon’s global supply chain, so consider that the German heritage is historical rather than indicative of current production location.
- Compare with other Chervon brands – If you already own Ego or Skil tools, FLEX shares the same parent company. However, battery systems are not interchangeable; each brand has its own platform. For heavy-duty construction work, FLEX’s 24V line is designed for professionals, whereas Skil targets DIY and prosumer users, and Ego focuses on outdoor equipment.
- Assess the 24V platform – The FLEX 24V platform is relatively new to the U.S. market, so tool and accessory availability may be more limited than for established brands like Milwaukee or DeWalt. Check retailer listings (Lowe's, Acme Tools) to verify that the specific tools you need are in stock.
- Read independent reviews and test results – Since we have not tested these tools ourselves, look for verified owner reviews or professional tool testers who have evaluated the FLEX 24V lineup in real-world conditions. Pay attention to battery runtime, power delivery, and durability claims.
By following these steps, you can decide whether FLEX power tools match your professional or DIY requirements.
