LINCOLNSHIRE, Ill., Sept. 17, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Klein Tools, the number one hand tool choice of professional electricians in the United States, today announced its entry into the Australian market through a significant financial investment and strategic partnership with Mumme Tools, Australia's leading mining tool manufacturer.

Klein and Mumme entered into a partnership to combine Klein Tools' superior line of professional hand tools with Mumme's large distribution network to increase each company's respective market share. Klein is the only major tool manufacturer worldwide focused on electrical and utility applications. Klein offers a full line of electrical tool products, using only the highest quality materials and superior workmanship to continually deliver the best performing and longest-lasting tools. Together, these companies provide a full range of quality hand tools built for strength and durability.

"With an estimated $19 billion market in electrical services, we know there is an enormous demand in Australia for a full line of superior tool products," said James Van Huis, Klein Tools' vice president of international sales. "Our partnership with Mumme Tools will allow us to meet that demand and surpass customer expectations for high-quality hand tools."

Klein Tools and Mumme Tools are holding a showcase event today with current and prospective retailers and distributors to display the newest and most innovative products, including the launch of a new line of insulated pliers and cable cutters. Made in the U.S., the pliers and cable cutters offer a multi-color, sleek design with small thumb guards for a more comfortable grip as well as ease of handling and storage. The pliers have an enhanced safety element as they are clearly marked with the official 1000-volt rating symbol to reduce the chance of injury when the tool may make contact with an energized source.

To further demonstrate its commitment to the market's professional tool industry, Klein Tools announced it has made a $125,000 tool donation to Master Electricians, which has connected electrical contractors with local services across Australia for more than 74 years, as well as a $125,000 donation to the Australian Industry Group (employers' organization with 750,000+ members in a range of industries including manufacturing, construction, mining, and other related professional service industries). The donations will benefit thousands of apprenticeship, trade and vocational training schools.

"Klein Tool's commitment to quality manufacturing and service is consistent with our business philosophy to produce and distribute premium tools while providing excellent customer support," said Adam Mumme, managing director at Mumme Tools. "We look forward to continuing to expand Mumme Tools' product line, increasing sales opportunities and providing our customers with a larger selection of premium hand tools."

About Klein Tools

Since 1857 Klein Tools, a family-owned and operated company, has been designing, developing and manufacturing premium-quality, professional-grade hand tools. The majority of Klein tools are manufactured in seven plants throughout the United States and are the number one choice among professional electricians and other tradespeople. For more information, visit www.kleintools.com. 

About Mumme Tools

For decades, Mumme Tools has manufactured superior mining tool products for the Australian market. Even under the most severe applications, Mumme's high-density, fine-grained forged tools continue to lead the industry in product performance and quality. The Mumme Products brand of tools is now exclusively specified for use in many global mining sites, defense and emergency services, government departments and by builders and contractors. For more information, visit www.mummeproducts.com.

SOURCE Klein Tools