There’s a reason Snap-on continues to dominate the professional tool industry, after more than 100 years, and it’s not just about wrenches.
As Tom Kasbohm, the firm’s Director of Franchise Systems, explains: “Snap-on’s commitment to quality and innovation has solidified its reputation among professionals worldwide. With over 55,000 SKUs in our Franchisee’s product line, we serve technicians of all kinds, ensuring we meet the diverse needs of our customers. This dedication has made Snap-on the number one tool brand and tool franchise in the world, a testament to our enduring presence in the industry.”
It’s a product-first ethos, but one that is clearly linked to the franchise model. A massive catalog of SKUs and a laser focus on professional users make it a business less about generic retail and more about building long-term customer trust.
Wheels on the ground
Where other retail brands pivoted to e-commerce or battled to maintain high street space, Snap-on’s strength lies in its on-the-road direct-to-user model.
“The Snap-on franchise opportunity offers a proven model of servicing full-time professional technicians and other customers who furnish their own tools in the normal course of their business. Franchisees make regular mobile store visits at the shops where the customers perform their critical task.”
Its mobile store strategy sets the franchise apart. By removing the need for a traditional bricks and mortar presence, franchisees save on overheads and take the product directly to the people using it.
“Franchisees provide productivity solutions by stocking their mobile stores with exclusive Snap-on products, providing convenience to the customers and eliminating the need for a traditional brick and mortar retail space.”
“We provide them with a protected list of calls – locations where Snap-on has determined that there are potential customers.”
So, franchisees aren’t going door-to-door and making cold calls. The support system includes a survey to determine the number of potential customers and territory protection, meaning no-one treads on anyone’s steel toe-caps, allowing franchisees to focus purely on service and sales.
“Snap-on will not license other franchisees to sell products at those locations, says Kasbohm. “The franchisee is in control of developing their customer relationships and service schedule to customers on their list of calls, and we provide the initial training.”
“In addition, Snap-on Credit provides financing for the franchisee and customers that qualify. Owners take pride in servicing local professional tool users and enjoy the freedom that comes with owning a Snap-on Tools franchise in their community.”
Innovation is in the tool bag
While many franchise businesses can feel static once the model is set, Snap-on continues to evolve its product offering, keeping up with rapid changing technological needs. It’s a big part of its 100-year plus longevity. It started as an innovator and continues to do so.
“Snap-on has an over 100-year legacy of innovation and continuously develops advanced diagnostic tools and equipment to meet evolving industry demands, providing franchisees with cutting-edge solutions to offer their customers. This commitment to innovation ensures that franchisees can confidently tackle more challenges than ever before, staying ahead in a rapidly advancing industry.”
Diagnostics and electronic equipment are core growth areas, and by supplying those to its franchisees, Snap-on is enabling its network to provide solutions for new customer problems as they emerge.
Turning franchisees into pros
A big part of the appeal is that you don’t need to be a technician to run a Snap-on franchise.
“New franchisees undergo an initial 10-day training program in Grapevine, Texas, followed by field training and ongoing support from the Franchise Performance Team, ensuring they are well-equipped to build and maintain customer relationships.”
“Additionally, franchisees have the opportunity to attend various trainings, conferences, and meetings throughout the year, fostering continuous growth and adaptation to market changes.”
The layered training approach reflects the franchisor’s belief that a franchisee is not static but a continuously evolving part of the brand and its customer offering.
Global garage, local knowledge
From its start in Milwaukee to a global footprint in more than 130 countries, Snap-on has proven its brand works beyond borders.
“Snap-on was started in Milwaukee in 1920, first entered the international arena in Canada mid-1920 and began offering franchises in the fall of 1993. Today, our products and services can be found in more than 130 countries around the world, demonstrating our ability to scale and adapt globally to the nuances of the customers we serve.”
Snap-on’s blend of consistency and flexibility plays no small part in its enduring appeal as a globally-scaled model that still leaves room for a franchisee to tailor their approach locally.
No experience? No problem
For potential franchise owners, the idea of selling professional tools to a customer base of knowledgeable local experts might sound intimidating, but need not be, says Kasbohm.
“Snap-on seeks individuals who are self-motivated, growth-oriented, and have a strong customer-service mindset to become franchisees. The ideal candidate would be willing to learn the proven Snap-on Tools franchise program, regardless of their background but they do NOT need to be technicians or tool enthusiasts. Our training programs help provide individuals with the skill sets to operate their Snap-on franchise business, it’s up to the owner to put in the effort to thrive.”
In short, business mindset and customer service skills matter more than technical know-how.
Weathering the economic storm
Starting a business is daunting enough for the first timer, and difficult economic circumstances only add to the level of fear and trepidation. So, they want a model that can handle the downturns, which is what Snap-on believes it offers.
“Entrepreneurs should align with a brand that offers strong support systems, proven business models, and a resilient market presence. Snap-on’s longstanding reputation and comprehensive franchisee resources provide a stable foundation, even amid economic fluctuations.
“With financing options available through Snap-on Credit and incentives for honorably discharged veterans, we strive to make the path to ownership accessible and supportive. Recently, Snap-on has been recognized as a 2025 Recession Resistant Franchise from Franchise Business Review due in large part to the essential nature of our customer’s line of work and our essential position in servicing these essential workers.”
The idea of ‘recession resistance is particularly appealing right now and being tied to essential trades provides a level of reassurance that helps encourage those thinking of taking the leap.
Scaling the tool rack
Snap-on doesn’t just offer one territory for owners, there is potential to go bigger and take on multiple territories and training available to help owners do it.
“We plan to continue investing in technological advancements and expanding our product offerings to meet the changing needs of professionals. By fostering innovation and providing robust support, the company aims to attract and retain high-caliber franchisees committed to excellence,” says Kasbohm.
“Our ongoing training programs and support systems are designed to help franchisees adapt and grow, which may lead to their long-term success in a competitive market. One observation we have seen with many franchisees is that they have found it helpful to transition from owner-operators to participatory owners who hire and train their employees to continue to provide high quality service as they grow and position themselves for potential multi-unit opportunities.”
For the ambitious, Snap-on offers a genuine path to scale. From operating alone to running as a team the tools might stay the same, but the business can grow based on the franchisee’s ability to build strong relationships.
