From TechShop magazine
SYCAMORE, Ill. and MCCOOK, Ill. — IDEAL Industries Inc. announced Aug. 23 that it has entered into a definitive agreement to purchase certain assets of SK Hand Tools Corp., one of America’s leading manufacturers of tools for professional technicians. 
Doug Spitler, vice president and general manager of IDEAL’s Retail and Industrial Divisions, has been named to run the new company, which will operate as a wholly owned subsidiary of IDEAL.
"Acquiring SK Hand Tools will expand our focus on American-made quality, service and value," Spitler said. "Loyal customers can count on the SK brand being re-energized under IDEAL ownership as the premier ‘Made in USA’ line of professional tools."
This latest move follows IDEAL’s acquisition of American tool makers Western Forge and Pratt Read earlier this year, and further demonstrates the company’s ongoing dedication to manufacturing in the United States. Although IDEAL is still formalizing plans, the company says it is committed to manufacturing SK tools in the United States, either by integrating production into its existing plants or building a new, state-of-the-art facility. IDEAL will announce details of its manufacturing plans for SK within 30 days after the sale closes.
Founded in 1921, Chicago-based SK Hand Tools is considered an icon by generations of technicians. Its broad line of quality-made tools, including sockets, ratchets, hammers and wrenches, have evolved over time to make them among the most precise and reliable on the market. IDEAL intends to sell SK Hand Tools’ portfolio of nearly 4,000 tools under the SK brand throughout the automotive and industrial channels of distribution.
The asset sale is expected to be finalized on Aug. 25, with IDEAL assuming no liabilities. SK had filed for bankruptcy protection on June 29.
