It’s in the basement of a New York City hardware store that the Allway Tools adventure started back in 1935, with a simple mission: creating reliable, high-quality tools for everyday use.
Since then, the company has grown from producing a single saw blade to offering over 200 products, which include wall prep solutions, scrapers, utility knives, paint mixers, and much more. This expansion, both under the Allway name and through white-label partnerships with major retail brands, is a testament to the company’s commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, and thorough understanding of its customers’ needs.
One of Allway Tools’ earliest successes was the creation of the first multi-purpose paint scraper, which quickly became a favorite among professionals. This success paved the way for more innovative products, each designed to meet the practical needs of customers. Listening to customer feedback has been a hallmark of the company’s approach, and the development of its most popular products is a direct result of better understanding its customer needs and listening to common complaints about what people “wish their tools could do”. Customer service is prioritized, and the company prides itself on taking frequent phone calls from customers and distributors, many of whom have been with it for over 30 years. This direct communication helps Allway Tools differentiate itself from competitors, and allows for a deep understanding of customer habits, pain points and needs, enabling the company to create solutions that truly make a difference.
The son of the founding father, now over 90 years old, still occasionally visits the factory, enhancing a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Former team members also frequently return to share suggestions or simply say hello, maintaining a sense of continuity that has been central to the company’s culture. While Allway Tools’ legacy is deeply rooted in family and community values, the company is also laser-focused on innovation, and has accumulated over 150 patents throughout its history. The current CEO continues to push for innovation, ensuring the company stays ahead of market demand by maintaining an on-site team of product engineers, fully dedicated to inventing new tools. Designed in NYC, all products reflect a tradition of quality and innovation.
Like most businesses, Allway Tools has also faced challenges, whether economic downturns, increased competition, or the need to adapt to new market trends. A significant challenge was the shift to digital marketing and online sales. Recognizing the importance of an online presence, Allway Tools invested in building a robust e-commerce platform and enhancing its digital efforts. This transition helped the company reach a wider audience and stay competitive in an increasingly digital world. Looking ahead, the team plans to expand its product lines, exploring new technologies and materials to meet evolving customer needs. Sustainability is also a key focus, with plans to adopt eco-friendly practices and develop products that minimize environmental impact.
As Allway Tools prepares to celebrate its 90th anniversary, it remains committed to consistently improving the customer experience through enhanced digital platforms and providing more support resources. Its journey from a small family business to a leader in the hand tool industry highlights the importance of adaptability, innovation, and customer focus. With a strong foundation and a clear vision, Allway Tools is well prepared for future challenges and opportunities.
