Northern Tool & Equipment

Northern Tool & Equipment is a family-owned retailer that specializes in tools, equipment, and industrial supplies for both professionals and dedicated DIY customers. The company was founded in 1981 by Don Kotula in Burnsville, Minnesota, starting as a single store focused on products like log splitters and air compressors. Over the years, Northern Tool has steadily grown its presence, and as of October 2024, it operates 140 stores across 24 states.

A notable milestone in the company’s history came in 2012, when Northern Tool acquired The Sportsman’s Guide and The Golf Warehouse, expanding its reach beyond its core tool business and diversifying its retail portfolio. This move reinforced its position as a multi-channel retailer serving a wide range of customers.

In the past five years, Northern Tool has accelerated its expansion, concentrating on high-growth markets in the South and Southeast. Recent store openings in Texas, Florida, and Georgia reflect this strategy, with additional priority markets including North Carolina and Tennessee. The company favors suburban and exurban locations where there is strong demand from contractors and homeowners, and it adapts its store formats to fit local needs, whether in power centers or as freestanding sites.

Northern Tool’s stores are known for their warehouse-style layouts, which offer customers a broad selection of over 100,000 products, including exclusive brands such as NorthStar, Powerhorse, and Klutch, alongside major national names. Many locations also provide in-store services like equipment repair and parts replacement, supporting a loyal customer base that relies on heavy-duty tools and machinery.

Still privately held and led by the Kotula family, Northern Tool employs approximately 3,000 people nationwide. Its headquarters remain in Burnsville, Minnesota, where corporate operations, distribution, and product development are managed. The company’s growth is supported by robust sales and a reputation for reliability, making it a consistent anchor in retail developments. With flexible store formats and a steady expansion posture, Northern Tool continues to be a credible and sought-after tenant in both established and emerging markets.