Harbor Freight Tools

Harbor Freight Tools is a privately owned retailer that specializes in affordable tools and equipment for professionals and DIY customers alike. The company was founded in 1977 by Eric Smidt and his father, Allan Smidt, who started the business as a mail-order operation before opening their first physical store in 1980. Over the years, Harbor Freight has steadily grown from its California roots into a national chain.

As of November 2025, Harbor Freight operates more than 1,400 stores across 48 states, supported by a workforce of approximately 23,000 employees. The company’s headquarters remains in Calabasas, California. Its stores offer a wide range of products, including power tools, hand tools, automotive equipment, generators, and shop supplies, with an emphasis on value through direct sourcing and private-label brands.

In the last five years, Harbor Freight has accelerated its expansion, opening dozens of new locations each year. The company has focused on suburban and rural communities, often repurposing former big-box retail spaces in high-visibility, high-traffic corridors. This approach has allowed Harbor Freight to become a frequent anchor or co-tenant in shopping centers, providing steady foot traffic and reliable tenancy for property owners and developers. The brand’s straightforward, large-format stores are designed to accommodate a broad selection of merchandise and bulk inventory, making them a practical fit for a variety of retail environments.

Harbor Freight remains under the ownership of Eric Smidt, who serves as CEO. The company has not been acquired or merged and continues to operate independently. In addition to its retail operations, Harbor Freight is active in supporting skilled trades education nationwide through its Harbor Freight Tools for Schools initiative.

With a proven operational model, robust financials, and a consistent record of growth, Harbor Freight Tools has established itself as a significant and credible player in the retail tools sector. The company’s ongoing investment in new locations and its adaptability in repurposing retail spaces underscore its relevance in today’s commercial real estate landscape.