Robert Bosch GmbH Postfach 10 60 50 D-70049 Stuttgart E-mail [email protected] Phone +49 711 758-3132 Fax +49 711 811-5115845 Corporate Communications,
Brand Management, and Sustainability Senior Vice President: Uta-Micaela Dürig www.bosch-press.com
March 2014 PI 8479 PT BD
Steady development in 2013
Bosch Power Tools successfully defends market
leadership and sets course for further growth
Great success with innovative products
Sales increase of three percent in local currency
Focusing on strategic growth segments pays off
More than 100 new products planned for 2014
Leinfelden – The Bosch Power Tools Division held its ground in 2013 and, as in the previous year, achieved worldwide sales of 4.0 billion euros. Sales grew by three percent in local currency. At the same time, the market also grew by three percent to an overall volume of 25.4 billion euros. “Even though our growth was severely affected by currency fluctuations in im-portant regions in 2013, from a worldwide perspective we are still number one in the power tools, accessories, and measuring tools business seg-ments, while for garden tools we place second”, said division president Henning von Boxberg at the annual press conference in Leinfelden. In 2014, the division strives to grow further by continuing to focus on strate-gic growth areas such as cordless technology, measuring tools, and acces-sories, and by continuing to concentrate on emerging markets. In recent years, this strategy has enabled the division to consistently win share in developing markets, thus setting the course for continuous growth. The size of the workforce remained constant worldwide at about 19,000 asso-ciates in 37 locations.
Proven Bosch quality for emerging markets
Bosch Power Tools achieved strong growth in local currency above all in Latin America, with sales up by twelve percent in the past year. In its home and largest market, Europe, the division generated a sales increase of four percent over previous year. This was driven primarily by increasing demand in Russia where Bosch Power Tools grew at 14 percent ‒ twice as fast as the market. “Launching products which are tailored to the needs of users
Page 2 of 4
in emerging markets and taking into consideration the purchasing power in these markets has enabled us to succeed in winning market share”, em-phasized von Boxberg. In contrast to the Eastern, emerging markets, the Western European market was unable to register any growth in 2013. The important submarket for portable electric power tools and benchtop tools even declined by one percent, mainly due to unfavorable development in Southern Europe where the effects of the financial crisis were especially noticeable ‒ particularly in Spain and Italy. However, Bosch Power Tools expects these markets to recover slightly this year. In Asia, sales performed well with an increase of five percent despite the economic slowdown in China. Double-digit growth rates were achieved in various countries including India, Indonesia, Vietnam, and the Philippines. Bosch achieved this success thanks to market-driven products which are very much geared towards the needs of local professional users. Sales declined by three per-cent in North America. This decline was due to adverse weather conditions and the conscious decision by Bosch Power Tools to favor its own profita-bility over giving in to prevailing pricing pressure. All other regions deve-loped positively. All in all, Bosch Power Tools generated about 90 percent of its sales outside of Germany.
Success due to innovative products
Innovative products are one of the guarantors for success at Bosch Power Tools. The cordless segment continues to be an important core segment. Whereas one in three tools was cordless in 2007, 43 percent of all power tools worldwide, now have a battery. Lithium-ion technology is still on the increase, though 83 percent of all cordless tools in Europe are already equipped with it. Bosch managed to strengthen its market leadership in the cordless segment again in 2013. This success is especially attributable to systems of tools which use the same interchangeable battery. These systems save users from having to purchase multiple batteries as multiple tools can be operated with a single battery. Bosch will again expand this range of system tools in 2014.
Global market leadership was further strengthened in the measuring tools segment in 2013. While the market grew by eight percent, Bosch grew by 13 percent ‒ considerably faster than the market. This success can be largely attributed to the easy use of Bosch measuring tools, an important selling point both for do-it-yourselfers and professional tradespeople alike. Launched in the autumn of 2013, the PLR 15 laser rangefinder is as small as a marker pen. With its self-explanatory, single-button operation, it for the first time makes laser technology easily accessible to people who have little experience using measuring tools. Following on the success of the
Page 3 of 4
PLR 15, Bosch will launch the GLM 30 Professional onto the market in 2014. The GLM 30 is the “DIY” PLR 15’s professional counterpart, with a longer range adapted for professional users. A new tool for do-it-your-selfers is the PLL 2. It is the first cross line laser that can project lines at any required angle ‒ making it especially easy to level and align objects, and providing new creative possibilities.
Although rarely a user focus, the right power tool accessories are intrinsi-cally important for efficient work. Bosch grew in its accessories product area by five percent in 2013, which was nearly twice as fast as the market’s three percent growth, thereby strengthening the market leadership in this heavily competitive segment. A range of innovative developments have been introduced to Bosch accessories to optimize the efficiency of the user’s work. New products such as extra-long, plunge-cutting saw blades for removing windows with professional multi-cutters, and especially po-werful saber saw blades with carbide technology will continue this deve-lopment in 2014.
Bosch Power Tools will launch more than 100 new products onto the mar-ket in Germany over the course of 2014. This innovative strength is an im-portant basis for the success of the division, as is evidenced by the fact that some 35 percent of sales in 2013 were generated with products that had been launched onto the market less than two years beforehand.
Press photos: 1-PT-19909, 1-PT-19910
Contact person for press inquiries:
Robert Bosch GmbH
Dr. Bettina Dannenmann
Phone: +49 711 758-3132
Fax: +49 711 811-5115845
The Power Tools Division of the Bosch Group is the world market leader for power tools, power tool accessories and measuring tools. In 2013, its roughly 19,000 associates gener-ated sales of 4.0 billion euros, 90 percent of which outside of Germany. With brands such as Bosch, Skil and Dremel, the division stands for customer focus and great engineering progress. The core success factors are innovative strength and pace of innovation. The divi-sion generated about 35 percent of its sales in 2013 with products that have been on the market for less than two years. In 2014 Bosch Power Tools will again launch more than 100 new products onto the German market in its four business segments power tools, accessories, measuring tools and garden tools.
Page 4 of 4 The Bosch Group is a leading global supplier of technology and services. According to
pre-liminary figures, its roughly 281,000 associates generated sales of 46.4 billion euros in 2013 (Note: due to a change in the legal rules governing consolidation, the 2013 figures can only be compared to a limited extent with the 2012 figures). Its operations are divided into four business sectors: Automotive Technology, Industrial Technology, Consumer Goods, and Energy and Building Technology. The Bosch Group comprises Robert Bosch GmbH and its more than 360 subsidiaries and regional companies in some 50 countries. If its sales and service partners are included, then Bosch is represented in roughly 150 coun-tries. This worldwide development, manufacturing, and sales network is the foundation for further growth. In 2013, Bosch applied for some 5,000 patents worldwide. The Bosch Group’s products and services are designed to fascinate, and to improve the quality of life by providing solutions which are both innovative and beneficial. In this way, the company offers technology worldwide that is “Invented for life.”
Additional information is available online at www.bosch.com, www.bosch-press.com and http://twitter.com/BoschPresse
Bildtext | Caption
Weltmarkt Elektrowerkzeuge in Menge und Wert Wechselkursbereinigte Entwicklung
World market for electric power tools by volume and value Development adjusted for currency effects
Pressebild-Nr. Press Photo No. 1-PT-19909-e zu Presse-Information See Press Release PI8479
Nachdruck für redaktionelle Zwecke honorarfrei mit Vermerk „Foto: Bosch”
Reproduction for press purposes free of charge with credit “Picture: Bosch”
Alle Bosch-Pressebilder finden Sie unter www.bosch-presse.de You can find all Bosch press photos at www.bosch-press.com www.bosch.com
Bildtext | Caption
Weltmarkt Elektrowerkzeuge in Wert nach Regionen Wechselkursbereinigte Entwicklung
World market for electric power tools by value and regions Development adjusted for currency effects
Pressebild-Nr. Press Photo No. 1-PT-19910-e zu Presse-Information See Press Release PI8479
Nachdruck für redaktionelle Zwecke honorarfrei mit Vermerk „Foto: Bosch”
Reproduction for press purposes free of charge with credit “Picture: Bosch”
Alle Bosch-Pressebilder finden Sie unter www.bosch-presse.de You can find all Bosch press photos at www.bosch-press.com www.bosch.com
March 19, 2014 RF 00219-e
Robert Bosch GmbH Postfach 10 01 56
D-70745 Leinfelden-Echterdingen Communications Power Tools E-mail [email protected] Phone: +49 711 758-3132 Fax: +49 711 811-5115845 Corporate Communications, Brand Management, and Sustainability Senior Vice President: Uta-Micaela Dürig Press forum: www.bosch-press.com
Bosch innovation creates markets
Henning von Boxberg
President of the Power Tools Division
of Robert Bosch GmbH
on the occasion of the press conference
in Leinfelden on March 19, 2014
2 of 7 Ladies and Gentlemen,
The Bosch Power Tools Division generated sales of 4.0 billion euros in 2013, a result on the same level as the preceding year. Our sales development was negatively impacted by unfavorable currency effects, especially due to the weakening of exchange positions with Brazil, Turkey, South Africa, and India. After adjusting for currency effects, sales grew by three percent. We are still a model of great innovative strength. A total of 35 percent of our sales in 2013 was generated with products that were launched onto the market within the last two years. The size of our worldwide workforce remained constant at about 19 000 associates in 37 locations.
Sales development differed regionally. We achieved growth of four percent in Europe and five percent in Asia/Pacific, but sales in North America declined by three percent. This decline was due to adverse weather conditions and a conscious deci-sion to favor profitability over giving in to prevailing pricing pressure. In the emerging Latin American market, however, we grew by twelve percent. In the power tools, accessories, and measuring tools business segments, we are the world market leader in value, while for garden tools we place second. Worldwide market growth of three percent
Adjusted for currency effects, our market grew worldwide by three percent overall to a total 25.4 billion euros in 2013. The larger power tools and accessories markets both registered three percent growth. The measuring tools market grew at a much stronger rate of eight percent over previous year, while
3 of 7 the market for electric garden tools, on the other hand, shrank
by one percent.
The highly important worldwide submarket for portable electric power tools and benchtop tools grew by four percent in volume to 220 million pieces and by three percent in value to 11.6 bil-lion euros. This submarket grew in all regions except for Europe where it shrank by one percent, mainly due to declining deve-lopment in Southern Europe where the effects of the financial crisis were noticeable in individual countries, especially Spain and Portugal. The regions North America, Asia/Pacific and Middle East/Africa each managed to grow by five percent. Latin America achieved a double-digit growth rate of ten percent. The cordless strategic growth segment
The share of cordless power tools in the market is continually increasing, and we continue to strengthen our leading position by focusing on this strategic growth segment. Whereas one in three tools was cordless in 2007, nearly half of them now have a battery. Lithium-ion technology is still on the increase. Of all cordless tools in Europe, 83 percent are already equipped with it. This figure was still 52 percent in 2009. In 2013 we further strengthened our market leading share in the European cordless segment from a 2012 base of 32 percent.
Users trust Bosch products. We have been a technology leader for lithium-ion tools since launching the Ixo in 2003. With this cordless screwdriver, we were the first manufacturer to launch a power tool with lithium-ion technology onto the market. Numerous other cordless products from Bosch were the first in their respective categories to use the innovative lithium-ion
4 of 7 technology. Examples of these are the Rotak LI cordless
lawn-mower, the Uneo “all-in-one” cordless power tool, the Ciso pruning shears, the AHS 54-20 LI hedgecutter, the PSR Select cordless screwdriver with integrated bit cylinder, and the Indego robotic mower with navigation system for systematic mowing in parallel lines.
Our unending enhancement of cordless technology drives us to apply our innovative strength to solve the problems of our users, including both tradespeople and do-it-yourselfers alike. For example, tradespeople can use our powerful and compact cord-less tools to work freely without an annoying cord and without having to constantly recharge their battery. With our “Power4All” cordless system, do-it-yourselfers no longer have to buy and store a battery and a charger for each of their tools. One battery and one charger are enough for all power tools within a given voltage class.
Success with easy-to-use measuring tools
We have also further strengthened our market leadership in measuring tools. While the market grew by eight percent, Bosch grew by 13 percent ‒ considerably faster than the market. As a result, in 2013 we further increased our market share from a 2012 basis of 21 percent. We offer professional tradespeople simple solutions for complex processes. For example, the GLM 100 C Professional laser rangefinder enables a trades-person to easily measure without the assistance of another tradesman, and to save the results to a marked photo on his or her smartphone. Its exceptionally easy handling also makes this tool attractive to first-time users of this technology.
5 of 7 We have also been able to win over many new DIY users with
our handy, easy-to-operate measuring tools. Our PLR 15 laser rangefinder, for example, has for the first time made laser technology accessible to people who have little experience with using measuring tools thanks to its self-explanatory, single-button operation.
Strong growth with accessories
The accessories market is also an area of particular strategic focus for us. Whereas this market grew worldwide by three percent in 2013, Bosch achieved a growth of almost double that rate, growing by five percent. Our market share has continually increased in recent years and we further strengthened our 2012 market leading twelve percent share (in value) in 2013. In the accessories market we continue to focus on differentia-tion, innovadifferentia-tion, and presentation. Through our portfolio of strong brands, we are able to offer tailor-made solutions for do-it-yourselfers, tradespeople, and industry. We use our inno-vative strength in the accessories segment to increase appli-cation effectiveness and therefore also the efficiency of the user’s work. With clearly arranged, self-explanatory, and attrac-tive product presentations we make it easier for the user to find the right accessory for the task at hand, and we help retailers to increase sales.
Success in emerging markets
We are also dedicated to further developing our sales and the state of the industry in emerging markets such as China, India, Brazil or Russia. In the area of portable electric power tools and benchtop tools, these markets grew in total by seven percent
6 of 7 in 2013. Our sales, however, grew by eleven percent, well ahead
of the market and therefore indicating a further increase over our 2012 market share of 27 percent. In Russia we even
managed to grow twice as fast as the market to achieve a sales increase of 14 percent, therefore successfully further increasing upon our 2012 market share of 20 percent.
Launching products which are tailored to the needs of users in emerging markets and taking into consideration the purchasing power in these markets has enabled us to succeed in winning market share. For example, we offer a cordless drill/driver for professional users in Russia, which has a narrower range of features than the tools offered in industrialized markets, but is robust and reliable to work with. Its charging time is longer, its torque lower, the chuck is smaller and it does not have conve-nience features such as an LED light or a belt clip. However, because of these feature adaptations it costs less than half that of a comparable cordless drill/driver which we sell in markets with higher purchasing power and “feature focus”. In Russia, we currently offer a total of ten such products which are tailored to the needs of users in emerging markets ‒ including rotary ham-mers, angle grinders, an impact drill, a hand-held circular saw, a jigsaw, and a dust extractor.
Forecast
We will again launch more than 100 new products onto the German market in 2014. These launches will come across the power tools, accessories, measuring tools, and garden tools segments, and will once again create new markets and amaze users. Our goal is to strengthen our leading position by again growing faster than the market and wining additional share in
7 of 7 what will surely be a tough, competitive environment. We will
do so by relying on systematic analysis of user needs, the inno-vative strength of our associates, and our customer’s trust in our strong brands.
March 19, 2014 RF 00220-e
Easy do-it-yourself with Bosch
Henning von Boxberg
President of the Power Tools Division
of Robert Bosch GmbH
on the occasion of the press conference
in Leinfelden on March 19, 2014
Check against delivery.
Robert Bosch GmbH Postfach 10 01 56
D-70745 Leinfelden-Echterdingen Communications Power Tools E-mail [email protected] Phone: +49 711 758-3132 Fax: +49 711 811-5115845 Corporate Communications, Brand Management, and Sustainability Senior Vice President: Uta-Micaela Dürig Press forum: www.bosch-press.com
2 of 9 Ladies and Gentlemen,
Bosch continues to be successful in the European market for DIY tools. Whilst the market stagnated, we registered dispro-portionately high growth of five percent and managed to further increase our market share of 38 percent1 with power tools from the Bosch and Skil brands in 2013. Our products are pene-trating the market: 16 of the 20 best-selling power tools in European homecenters are from Bosch.
Understanding do-it-yourselfers ‒ supporting do-it-yourselfers This success is based on our great innovative strength and our aim of knowing and meeting the needs of do-it-yourselfers. We very closely follow what it is that do-it-yourselfers want, and develop products to meet these wants. Doing things yourself so that you can be proud of your own achievement, expressing yourself creatively, finding information and service offers that suit you on the internet ‒ these are trends that move do-it-yourselfers. We offer them matching solutions for this. Easy wall preparation with the PWR 180 CE
A classical time-consuming and annoying DIY job is removing old wallpaper ‒ painstaking and dirty manual work which many people do themselves instead of hiring a professional. Normally the walls are perforated numerous times with a spike roller and then soaked before the wallpaper can be pulled off bit by bit using a scraper. Bosch’s solution is the PWR 180 CE, a universal system for wall preparation. This tool reliably removes wall-paper, plaster and paint residues from surfaces. It works with a rotating disc and application-specific interchangeable
1 Due to a change in the data basis, this year’s figures are only comparable to an extent with the figures published in 2013.
3 of 9 accessories. These include a perforator which replaces the
spike roller, a sanding plate which can be used to remove substances such as plaster, and various brushes for cleaning or bringing out textures. The PWR 180 CE therefore covers a wide range of applications. Moreover, it is clean to work with: the dust produced is extracted by means of an integrated high-performance turbine and fed directly into the connected dust box. It has a three liters capacity and features a high-quality membrane filter which efficiently absorbs fine dust such as concrete and plaster dust. Another advantage is the Constant Electronic which ensures a continuously high material removal rate even under load. This is a quicker, more thorough and cleaner way to prepare walls than by hand.
Easily apply paint with Bosch paint spray systems
When the surface is finished, it is time to apply the paint. Until now, do-it-yourselfers had to think carefully before painting about which different tools they will need to apply wall paints, lacquers and glazes. The Bosch PFS 3000-2 and PFS 5000 E paint spray systems now put an end to this because they are the first spray systems that can apply the different types of paint with the same gun. The right nozzle and the corres-ponding paint mode are easy to select and set due to easy-to-understand symbols and color coding on the tool. These tools make it easier to quickly and consistently apply paint ‒ even on structured surfaces such as brickwork or garden fences,
therefore saving time and materials compared to applying paint with a paintbrush and roller ‒ with easy cleaning and no major loss of paint. The PFS 3000-2 offers a 650 watt motor with two-stage adjustment for wood and wall paints. Typical applications include spraying walls or structured surfaces such as brickwork
4 of 9 and lacquering or glazing larger pieces of furniture and garden
fences. The more powerful PFS 5000 E has 1 200 watts of power and is suitable, for example in a renovation project, to paint entire apartments or houses including the exterior ‒ from different walls, to wooden floors, through to garages covered with tongue-and-groove panels. We are therefore offering two solutions that make paint application easy.
Easy sanding with Bosch multi-sanders
Sanding surfaces, sanding tight spaces, and removing a lot of material ‒ anyone who wants to do these jobs with one single tool rather than multiple tools can use a multi-sander. We are now adding two compact corded tools to our successful multi-sander series: the PSM 100 A for occasional sanding work and the PSM 200 AES which offers even more flexibility and con-venience as a result of new product features. It is supplied with an additional rectangular sanding plate which is 18 x 9 centi-meters in size. With the sanding surface that is approximately 60 percent larger, surfaces can be sanded even more quickly and efficiently than with the previous sanding plate. This is particularly easy thanks to the new two-handed grip: whilst one hand rests comfortably on the front at the tool’s head, the other hand pushes the PSM 200 AES effortlessly over the surface. Other sanding accessories can be used, such as a louver sanding attachment or a so-called sanding finger with which you can easily get between the spars of the backs of chairs, for example. Six different speeds can be set to adapt the tool to different materials and applications. The supplied microfilter box ensures low dust levels when working. Alternatively, do-it-yourselfers can also connect an external dust extraction system
5 of 9 to the dust extraction outlet. This makes it quick and easy to
complete sanding jobs.
Easy sanding with the PSM Primo
Anyone who has previously not felt confident of being able to work with a multi-sander or has sanded smaller objects by hand can use the PSM Primo in future ‒ it is a handy tool which enables good sanding results to be achieved quickly and easily even without having to have any particular prior knowledge. This tool combines three features that have already made trendsetters of products such as the Ixo cordless screwdriver and the Glue Pen: a good ratio of power to weight coupled with a modern design and a slim, compact shape. The PSM Primo is the smallest and lightest multi-sander on the market: it is only 18 centimeters long, has 50 watts of power but weighs only 600 grams, and is comfortable to hold and control with one hand thanks to its rubber coating and the recesses in the side of its handle. Unlike conventional multi-sanders, its iron-shaped sanding plate has an especially long, flat tip. As a result, the PSM Primo comfortably gets into all the corners and edges even of small objects. Whether you want to finally sand that side table from the flea market, spruce up those chairs from
grandma for the shared apartment, or convert wine crates into a coffee table ‒ the PSM Primo masters the required sanding applications and many more with ease.
Easily be flexible with the Ixo Collection
We also offer do-it-yourselfers an incredibly easy-to-use tool with our Ixo cordless screwdriver. This tool is by no means a classical power tool anymore, rather it can be used with different adapters to perform tasks such as driving screws
6 of 9 around corners, opening wine bottles, seasoning food, and
lighting charcoal. All of the adapters ‒ not only the previous special editions “Vino”, “Spice” and “Barbecue”, but also the tried-and-tested DIY adapters angle screw adapter, off-set angle adapter and torque setting adapter ‒ will in future be
per-manently included in the range as the Ixo Collection and will also be available individually. A new addition to the range is a universal cutting adapter called the “Cutter”. It effortlessly cuts different materials such as decorative fabrics, cardboard and carpet up to six millimeters thick. Its blade is self-sharpening, eliminating the need for blade changes. The universal cutting adapter is ready to use in only three steps: remove the black cap on the Ixo, click on the adapter and press the red switch ‒ the “Cutter” is then ready to cut.
Easily staple more with the PTK 3,6 LI Office Set
We are also offering users greater flexibility in future when it comes to stapling. There were previously two tacker categories: office staplers for stapling paper and hand tackers for hobby and household. Both were limited to their respective appli-cation range. We are now offering a cordless tacker that can do both with the help of two new accessories: the PTK 3,6 LI in the new Office Set. This tool performs classical jobs such as
upholstering furniture or fitting decorations just as easily as stapling paper up to 60 pages and brochures up to 30 pages. This makes the PTK 3,6 LI the most versatile cordless tacker on the market. This cordless tool is small, handy and can be
comfortably taken anywhere with you. Its integrated lithium-ion battery has hardly any self-discharge. This versatile tool is therefore always ready for easy stapling and tacking in the office, hobby and household.
7 of 9 Easy aligning of objects with the PLL 2
More complex tasks such as hanging up pictures, light fixtures and shelves present do-it-yourselfers with multiple challenges at once because the objects have to be correctly positioned and then precisely aligned. With the PLL 2 cross line laser Bosch offers a solution to replace classical equipment such as the meter stick and spirit level. This instrument is easy to operate and is the first cross line laser on the market that can project lines at any desired angle. This is made possible by the incline function with digital angle display. If you set the incline function on the tool and tilt the PLL 2 parallel to the wall, the selected angle from 0 to 90 degrees is shown on the illuminated display at all times. On the basis of the projected lines, it is then possible to align, for example, objects along a roof slope or wallpaper with geometric patterns, tiles or areas of color at any desired angle. Alongside the incline function, the PLL 2 offers an automatic leveling function required for precise horizontal or vertical alignment and can also be used as a digital spirit level ‒ for example to check whether a stove, washing machine or worktop is level. The combination of these three functions makes the instrument exceptionally versatile and also makes precise alignment and positioning easy.
Easily perform filigree work with the Dremel Micro
Many do-it-yourselfers still use hand tools such as chisels and files to perform detailed work. It is however not always possible to get into tight spaces with these large tools, and working by hand requires skill and strength. The Dremel Micro provides a remedy for this. It is the handiest multitool from Dremel, weighs only 250 grams, is only 20 centimeters long and has an espe-cially slim grip with softgrip coating. You can therefore wrap
8 of 9 one hand around the Dremel Micro comfortably and guide it in a
controlled manner at all times. As a result, filigree work such as routing smaller shapes is made just as effortless as work in hard-to-reach areas, for example to make recesses in cabinets and drawers. The Micro is also the first multitool from Dremel to be equipped with a ring-shaped LED light. The workpiece is therefore always well lit even in poor lighting conditions. This makes work easier especially when performing tricky tasks. The speed is adjusted in five stages from 5 000 to 25 000 revo-lutions per minute simply using two buttons on the top of the tool, which enables it to be adapted to each application. A five-stage LED scale makes it quick and easy to see which speed is currently set. This makes the Dremel Micro exceptionally user-friendly.
Easy sanding with the Fox 6-in-1 multi-sander from Skil We successfully cater to the needs of the pragmatic do-it-yourselfer with the Skil brand. We do so by providing powerful and easy-to-operate tools. This also applies to sanding. Do-it-yourselfers would ideally like to complete all sanding jobs with the same tool. The Fox 3-in-1 multi-sander met this demand almost entirely when it was launched last year. Now Skil is launching another Fox model onto the market: the Fox 6-in-1 multi-sander. As with its tried-and-tested namesake, this tool is a random orbit sander, orbital sander and delta sander in one and additionally offers three new attachments: a louver sanding attachment, a so-called sanding finger and a special flexible attachment for machine-sanding curved surfaces. This makes the 6-in-1 Fox the most versatile sander from Skil. Equipped with a 250 watt motor, it offers high performance for fast work progress. Two speeds can be set: the lower speed is used for
9 of 9 applications on small surfaces that require careful control
during material removal, whereas the higher speed is used for working on large surfaces. The Fox is therefore easy to operate, even for do-it-yourselfers who have little experience of using sanders.
Personal customer communication with “MyBosch” After products with which they can master their personal challenges, the second major building block for satisfying customers is service. Customers want service offers that suit them. Online they ideally want to be able to access services via a single platform instead of having to go from homepage to homepage. Caused by social media channels, personal customer communication is also growing in importance: the customer wants to be perceived as an individual and no longer an anonymous entity. This is what our “My Bosch” concept has been designed for. We want to use this new communication platform to encourage users to get into contact with us even more intensively than before and to use individually tailored information, advice and services.
Forecast
All of these new products are consistently geared towards the needs and wants of users. They go by the slogan “Easily do-it-yourself with Bosch”, which we want to live up to again in 2014 to amaze and win over customers. Focusing on this is the basis for further strengthening our leading position and winning additional market shares.
March 19, 2014 RF 00221-e
Bosch makes it easy to work efficiently
Henk Becker
Member of the executive management
of the Power Tools Division
of Robert Bosch GmbH
on the occasion of the press conference
in Leinfelden on March 19, 2014
Check against delivery.
Robert Bosch GmbH Postfach 10 01 56
D-70745 Leinfelden-Echterdingen Communications Power Tools E-mail [email protected] Phone: +49 711 758-3132 Fax: +49 711 811-5115845 Corporate Communications, Brand Management, and Sustainability Senior Vice President: Uta-Micaela Dürig Press forum: www.bosch-press.com
2 of 13 Ladies and Gentlemen,
Bosch was successful in the European market for professional power tools again in 2013. Whilst the market for portable electric power tools declined by two percent, Bosch was able to achieve growth of three percent and to further increase its market share of 30 percent. Our system solutions help professional tradespeople to be productive, to competently solve tricky challenges and therefore to master the time pressure in tough day-to-day jobsite work. We are again pursuing this goal with this year’s innovations. These include exceptionally efficient cordless tools, tools with high user protection, and tools and accessories for specific applications.
The building blocks of exceptionally efficient cordless tools
Cordless tools are exceptionally efficient when they have a long lifetime and long runtime. To ensure that our tools meet
precisely these criteria, we have equipped them with
maintenance-free, long-life EC motors, batteries which have CoolPack technology to protect against too sudden and severe heat-up and which have a further increase in Ah.
Unlike conventional DC electric motors with carbon brushes, the brushless EC motors from Bosch are completely main-tenance-free and work with a degree of efficiency of more than 80 percent instead of 60 to 70 percent. This results in less heat loss. The tools do not get as hot and can perform up to
30 percent more work per battery charge.In addition to this, the Electronic Motor Protection (EMP) protects the tool: it shuts the motor down immediately if it overloads. As a result of these factors, the lifetime of Bosch cordless tools with EC motors is double that of tools with conventional motors.
3 of 13 EC technology also allows for a very compact and lightweight
design of the tools.
Since launching 2.0 Ah for 36 volt professional tools in January of this year, we have been the first manufacturer to consistently offer batteries with 2.0 and 4.0 Ah. In the 18 volt class we have continuously increased the capacity since 2007: from 1.3 to 2.0 Ah for the Compact batteries, which excel due to their low weight; from 2.6 to 4.0 Ah for the XL batteries, which excel due to their long runtime. Now we are increasing the capacity again and for the first time offering 5.0 Ah batteries for 18 volt tools. These batteries have the tried-and-tested CoolPack technology to fully exploit the runtime.
18 volt CoolPack batteries with 5.0 Ah
The new 5.0 Ah batteries provide another 25 percent more runtime than the previous 4.0 Ah batteries. At the same time they have a size of only 11.5 x 7.5 x 5.5 centimeters and a weight of 620 grams, making them the smallest and lightest 5.0 Ah batteries for 18 volt tools on the market. Moreover, the heat generated as the duration of use and power demand on the battery increase is permanently dissipated outwards by the CoolPack battery from Bosch due to its special housing
geometry with cooling fins. As a result, it remains considerably cooler inside than conventional batteries and remains
operational over the entire runtime of 5.0 Ah. The heat dissipation also has a positive effect on the lifetime of the battery, enabling it to last for twice as long as a battery without CoolPack technology. Anyone who purchases a battery from Bosch can also use it straightaway, without having to worry about whether it will fit because the tried-and-tested “Flexible
4 of 13 Power System” ensures compatibility with all existing power
tools and chargers within a voltage class. We therefore offer professional tradespeople planning and cost certainty.
Efficient working with the new EC drill/driver generation
The advantages of the EC motor and CoolPack battery are now also offered by our GSR 14,4 V-EC Professional and GSR 18 V-EC Professional drill/drivers and the GSB 14,4 V-EC Professional and GSB 18 V-EC Professional combis. They are part of the “dynamicseries” ‒ a series of especially compact tools with long battery runtime ‒ and are based on tried-and-tested models. However, they have a longer lifetime thanks to their EC technology, lasting for twice as long as tools which do not have EC motors. They are therefore especially suitable for serial applications and enable finishing trades such as
electricians, plumbers and joiners to work quickly and efficiently. Both cordless drill/drivers have a head length of only 179 millimeters, while both cordless combis are only 189 millimeters long. This enables professional tradespeople to easily use them overhead and in tight spaces or hard-to-reach areas. A high torque – the GSR 18 V-EC Professional, for
example, provides 31 newton meters in a screwdriving
application in softwood – and a 13 millimeter Auto-Lock chuck give the tools a wide range of applications.
Efficient screwdriving with the GDX 18 V-EC Professional
The GDX 18 V-EC Professional impact driver combines the advantages of EC technology with the tried-and-tested, unique hexagon/square toolholder from the existing GDX model, enabling both screwdriver bits and nutsetters to be used. The GDX 18 V-EC Professional also offers an up to 100 percent
5 of 13 longer lifetime and a more compact and lighter design than
tools with conventional motors. It drives about 490 screws measuring 6 x 65 millimeters in softwood with a 4.0 Ah battery, which equates to an increase of 40 percent over the model which does not have an EC motor. This therefore provides professional tradespeople with an even more versatile and efficient tool for all the connections required in installation, metal and wood construction. Three preset speed settings make work easy because the preselected speed minimizes the risk of overtightening and thus snapping screws. The first setting is designed for small screws, the second for medium screws, and the third for large screws. This corresponds, for example, to driving screws in sheet metals, wooden boards and metal profiles. Three LEDs in the tool’s head provide good illumination of the work area. They can be switched on and off as required and make it easier to work in poor lighting
conditions.
Plan for the future: efficient charging with induction
Anyone who works with cordless tools is mobile, but always has to schedule the required time and remember to charge the energy source, otherwise the tool will not be operational. It may also be necessary to purchase multiple chargers in order to be able to charge batteries simultaneously so that they are ready when needed. Moreover, dirtied contacts and constant insertion and removal of the batteries make them more prone to wear. Bosch’s plan for the future is therefore “inductive charging” and offers users three major advantages, above all in semi-stationary applications:
6 of 13 greater user-friendliness and productivity because the
batteries stay in the tool and can be parked on the charging unit during every work interruption to charge them,
complete flexibility because the inductive batteries within a voltage class will continue to be compatible with all tools in that class,
very robust charging units that no longer have contact points and are therefore insensitive to water, dust and dirt.
Inductive batteries and chargers are scheduled for launch in autumn of this year. With this we are for the first time offering a technology for power tools, which has already found its way into daily life – be it as induction cookers or charging stations for electric toothbrushes. We are convinced that we can be just as successful with this pioneering achievement as we were with the first integration of lithium-ion cells in a cordless screwdriver ‒ a technology that was known prior to 2003 only from cellphones, but which 83 percent of all hand-held cordless power tools in Europe are now equipped with.
High user protection: angle grinders with brake system
Our system solutions also include tools that combine efficiency and high user protection, such as angle grinders. These tools repeatedly have to be put down between individual work steps. Long run-down of the disc is not only a hindrance in such cases, it can also be dangerous if the user puts the tool down too early and it moves of its own accord. To remedy this problem, we are launching six new small angle grinders which go by the slogan “The first ever brake that lets you go faster”. Three of the models have 1 200 watts and three have 1 500 watts. They are all equipped with the “Intelligent Brake System”, the first brake module to work magnetically and is therefore completely
wear-7 of 13 free and maintenance-free. Unlike mechanical or electronic
brake systems, it brakes reliably even if there is a power outage and ensures that the angle grinders stop 70 percent faster than an angle grinder without a brake system. Since the disc comes to a standstill faster, the angle grinder can be put down faster, which means the user can carry on working sooner. This saves time and money. Moreover, these tools are therefore also suitable for applications in which high safety standards apply, such as in refineries, on oil platforms and in crane, ship, tank and container construction. Two of the six models are
additionally equipped with the tried-and-tested “Protection Switch”, a deadman switch that can be operated along the entire length of the handle ‒ regardless of whether the angle grinder is held at the front, back or in the middle. As a result, users always have full control over the tool even in difficult working positions.
The “Intelligent Brake System” is an eddy current brake. If the angle grinder is switched off or there is a power outage, two parallel magnets in the gearbox are aligned so that their north and south poles face each other. The resulting magnetic flow generates a braking torque in a copper disc positioned between them (eddy current principle). As a result, the disc of the angle grinder comes to a standstill very quickly.
High user protection: drilling and chiseling without dust
We also make a major contribution to user protection with our solutions for low dust levels when drilling and chiseling. Demolishing concrete, drilling holes and recesses for fitting light fixtures and plug sockets, core drilling for cable and pipe feedthroughs ‒ the debris that trickles down or the dust that
8 of 13 swirls up during these applications interferes with a
person’s work and is bad for his health. We now offer trades-people a complete system for low dust levels when drilling and chiseling: the GDE 16 Plus Professional for small rotary ham-mers, GDE 68 Professional and GDE 162 Professional for all standard rotary hammers, diamond or impact drills for drilling with core cutters up to 68 or 162 millimeters, GDE max
Professional for SDS-max rotary and demolition hammers in the current Bosch range, and now the new GDE 16 Cyl Professional for Bosch impact drills and GDE hex Professional for breakers as well as the GSH 11 VC Professional SDS-max demolition hammer. With the help of these dust extraction systems, drilling debris and dust are extracted directly where they originate. This results in work which is healthier, kinder to tools and more efficient. As with the systems which are already available, the new dust extraction systems feature easy handling, low weight on the machine and a robust design. They are fixed by a quick-action clamp, and together with our wet/dry dust extractors in the “Click & Clean System” they form a system solution for low dust levels when working, with the power tool, dust extraction system and dust extractor all available from a single source.
Tools and accessories for specific applications
In addition to tools that cover a wide range of applications such as screwdrivers, rotary hammers and jigsaws, we also offer power tools and accessories for very specific applications including pneumatic nailers, stirrers, a pipe belt sander, a metal cut-off saw, and a grinding system for efficiently grinding
welded seams and achieving a clean surface in only two steps. We are therefore living up to our claim of offering professional tradespeople a suitable solution for virtually every problem.
9 of 13
Efficient routing with the routers in the new 1250 watt class
We are now launching two new routers in the “woodworking” segment. Routing jobs require precision. Even deviations in a range of tenths of a millimeter can lead to the cut not providing the desired result. Difficult adjustment, cumbersome handling, complicated bit changes ‒ these are the challenges that
tradespeople have to overcome when using routers. Bosch’s solution is handy precision tools with 1250 watts of power and 60-millimeter plunge depth: GOF 1250 CE Professional and GOF 1250 LCE Professional. They feature an easy fine adjust-ment system ‒ the “After-Lock” fine adjustment enables the user to readjust the selected routing depth in a range of tenths of a millimeter even in the plunged position ‒ and enable especially precise control thanks to the new geometry of their base plate, plunge columns and handles. Bit changes are also made easy: simply place the router on its head, activate the spindle lock and engage the parked position. Now the user has both hands free to change the router bit. The tools are identical except for two product features. The LCE version has a digital depth display. Its display makes it even easier to set and
reproduce the required depth than with the customary scale. In addition to this, its LED ring illuminates the work area to make precise routing even easier.
Easy window removal with “C-Tec Speed” saw blades
When it comes to performing different tasks, there is hardly a tool that offers more possibilities than a multi-cutter. However, this versatile tool only becomes a problem-solver when used with the right accessory. Take window removal, for example. Nowadays an oscillating tool makes it very easy to get into
hard-10 of 13 to-reach areas without damaging surrounding building
compo-nents and walls. The frames and fixings can however not be cut cleanly because standard 40-millimeter plunge-cutting saw blades are not long enough. Our 70-millimeter-long “C-Tec Speed” saw blades solve this problem. They are available in the Wood and Wood & Metal versions and saw at least 30 percent faster than conventional plunge-cutting saw blades thanks to their special blade geometry. This is due in part to their slim blade body and rounded cutting edge which enables the “C-Tec Speed” saw blades to quickly and effortlessly plunge into the material. Moreover, they fit all conventional professional multi-cutters without the need for an adapter thanks to their univer-sal OIS (Oscillating Interface System). This gives professional tradespeople additional flexibility.
Clean cutting of composite elements with carbide technology
With the right accessory, saber saws can also cut whatever you want. In construction, hardened and high-alloy steels such as stainless V2A, V4A or duplex steel are increasingly being installed together with wooden parts. Previous bi-metal saw blades cannot, however, cut through hardened steel and wood in composite building elements. Bosch has solved this problem and enhanced carbide technology for saber saw blades. The new “Progressor for Wood and Metal” series comprises three saber saw blades with lengths of 150, 225 and 300 millimeters and enables professional tradespeople to efficiently cut
composite building elements in demolition and renovation work. These saber saw blades have carbide teeth welded onto them. These teeth are exceptionally robust and sharp. In addition to this, the tooth strip is “progressive” ‒ which is from where the blades get their name. This means that the tooth spacing
11 of 13 increases from the shank towards the blade tip. The same blade
can therefore be used to simultaneously cut thin materials such as screws and thick materials such as wooden profiles. As a result, the “Progressor for Wood and Metal” blades work efficiently and have a longer lifetime than bi-metal blades. The comprehensive carbide range from Bosch also includes saber saw blades for high-alloy steel (“Endurance for Stainless Steel”), drywall materials such as cement-bonded fiber boards
(“Endurance for Fiber Plaster”), aerated concrete (“Endurance for Aerated Concrete”), poroton brick (“Endurance for Brick”) and cast iron (“Basic for Cast Iron”).
The right accessories at hand with the Pro-Mix accessory sets
A constant irritation to tradespeople is having to lug countless drill and screwdriver bits around with them, only to then realize on the jobsite that they do not have the right accessory with them. With our Pro-Mix Metal, Pro-Mix Concrete and Pro-Mix Wood, we are therefore offering professional tradespeople accessory sets that cover virtually all drilling and screwdriving applications. In accordance with their naming, these 35-piece sets consist of the six most common metal, concrete or wood drill bits, plus three nutsetters, two double-ended bits, two bit holders and 22 screwdriver bits. With only one set,
tradespeople therefore have the right accessories at hand for virtually every application ‒ even if they have to unexpectedly switch from one jobsite to another or if they have to do an unforeseen job at the work location. All of the sets are clearly arranged. The screwdriver bits also have color coding. This helps the user to find the right bit for the relevant application at a glance. The range comprises PH, PZ, slotted, hex and Security Torx screwdriver bits.
12 of 13
Efficient measuring with the GLM 30 Professional
Before you can really get to work on the jobsite, you first have to take measurements for the calculation of materials and costs. Many tradespeople still use a folding rule to do so because they are deterred by large, complicated measuring tools. The GLM 30 Professional from Bosch is now removing this inhibition threshold. It is the first professional laser rangefinder with self-explanatory single-button operation. The first press of the but-ton switches the tool on, the second activates the laser – and the tool is ready to measure. Distances of up to 30 meters can be measured in seconds to within an accuracy of two milli-meters ‒ even by tradespeople who have little experience of using laser rangefinders. Moreover, the GLM 30 Professional is only 10 x 4 centimeters in size and weighs about 100 grams, making it the most compact and lightweight professional laser rangefinder made by Bosch. It fits in any pocket and can be conveniently transported to any work location. Another ad-vantage is the auto-sum function, which is unique on the market: each press of the button performs another measure-ment. The values are automatically added together and shown in the top line of the three-line display. This rules out any errors from adding together individual results. The measuring accuracy and range of this instrument are certified to ISO standard
16331-1. This enables professional tradespeople to objectively compare certified laser rangefinders: the GLM 30 Professional measures very quickly and accurately even in poor lighting conditions.
13 of 13
Forecast
Bosch makes it easy to work efficiently with its innovations such as efficient cordless tools, system solutions for high user protection, and specific problem-solvers. We help professional tradespeople to improve their productivity so that they can prevail in the face of tough competition and win new customers with convincing work results. By consistently gearing our pro-ducts towards the needs of our target groups in this way, we want to continue our success story in 2014 and further strengthen our leading position.
March 19, 2014 RF 00222-e
Robert Bosch GmbH Postfach 10 01 56
D-70745 Leinfelden-Echterdingen Communications Power Tools E-mail [email protected] Phone: +49 711 758-3132 Fax: +49 711 811-5115845 Corporate Communications, Brand Management, and Sustainability Senior Vice President: Uta-Micaela Dürig Press forum: www.bosch-press.com
Record year for Bosch: Growth in all business segments
Bernd Müller
Sales Director for Germany, Austria, Switzerland
of the Power Tools Division
of Robert Bosch GmbH
on the occasion of the press conference
in Leinfelden on March 19, 2014
2 of 12 Ladies and Gentlemen,
In 2013, Bosch managed to further strengthen its leading market position with power tools, measuring tools and accessories in Germany. Record sales were achieved and market shares won in all business segments. With four million power tools, 16 million accessories and 300,000 measuring tools, we sold more products than ever before in a year. Our online offerings also set a record with more than ten million visitors.
Growth in a stagnating market
Bosch achieved this success despite unfavorable circumstances. The German market for portable electric power tools stagnated in 2013 both in units sold and in value. The number of tools sold was 5.3 million1, and their value was 686 million euros1.
Bosch, however, increased its sales in this segment by five percent. The market share of 39 percent therefore increased further. The market for measuring tools performed better, growing by four percent. Bosch managed to increase its sales by 18 percent and significantly strengthen its market share. In the stagnating accessories market, Bosch registered growth of seven percent and also increased its own market share.
Trends that moved the market
More and more users are choosing to buy innovative products, increasingly also cordless tools, and are increasingly obtaining their information online. Bosch succeeded in taking advantage of these trends and was also instrumental in shaping them.
1Due to a change in the data basis, this year’s figures are only comparable to an extent with the figures published in 2013.
3 of 12 Our innovations create markets. The market for portable
electric power tools grew from 2007 to 2013 by nine percent. Bosch was able to increase its sales by 41 percent in the same timespan, which means that whilst the market had average annual growth of about one percent, Bosch achieved average annual growth of six percent. Our successful innovations in- cluded, for example, professional tools such as the GBH 5-40 DCE Professional rotary hammer and the GSR 10,8-2-LI Professional cordless drill/driver, and DIY tools such as the PMF 180 E multi-function tool, the Uneo and Uneo Maxx multi-talented tools for hammering, drilling and screwdriving, the PSR Select with integrated bit cylinder, and many more.
Cordless tools now account for 43 percent of the overall market for portable electric power tools in Germany. This figure was still 38 percent in 2009. We managed to increase sales by twelve percent with our extensive cordless range in 2013, whereas the market volume of this segment only grew by two percent. Our success is based on innovative tools, marketing geared towards customer wishes, and attractive presentation of the products at retail outlets.
We were also able to participate successfully in the online trend. The estimated share of all online purchases in the market for portable electric power tools was 14 percent in 2013. The percentage of purchases influenced by the internet is many times higher. Bosch managed to further strengthen its market share of 40 percent in the online market for power tools. This shows that we are well positioned in internet communication, and our product, application and service information is being well received on the internet and by users.
4 of 12
Market share gains with professional tools
2013 was a difficult year for the professional segment. The long winter resulted in suspensions of building work at the beginning of the year and consequently falls in demand for power tools. The market for professional power tools shrank by two percent – both in units sold and in value. The number of tools sold was two million2, and their value was 438 million euros2. Bosch was
able to detach itself from this negative market development, increasing its sales in this segment by three percent and further strengthening its own market share of 26 percent2. This makes
Bosch the highest-grossing brand for professional tools at German specialist retail outlets.
Our broad range of innovative cordless tools is being especially well received by professional tradespeople. Whereas the market for professional cordless tools grew by only one percent in Germany in 2013, we managed to increase sales in this segment by eight percent. The key building blocks of our success are: product innovations with noticeable added value for the user,
for example due to increased user protection,
the offer of cordless tools with 10.8 or 18 volts in the so-called “Clic & Go” system at a fixed price,
marketing of cordless tools through “Bosch Cordless
Specialists” at specialist retail outlets.
Increased user protection due to “Rotation Control”
A current example of our innovations with increased added value are the GSR 14,4 and 18 VE-2-LI Professional cordless drill/drivers and the GSB 14,4 and 18 VE-2-LI Professional
2Due to a change in the data basis, this year’s figures are only comparable to an extent with the figures published in 2013.
5 of 12 cordless combis. They offer special user protection thanks to
their “Electronic Rotation Control”, ERC for short. If the integrated sensor detects sudden jamming during work ‒ for example due to tilting in metal or a hard object in wood or
masonry ‒ the motor shuts down immediately and minimizes
unwanted run-on of the power tool. Carpenters, roofers, electricians and plumbers therefore always have their tool under control – even in the toughest screwdriving and drilling applications.
Simplified “Clic & Go” system with fixed price
We offer our 10.8 and 18 volt tools in the so-called “Clic & Go” system. With this system, professional tradespeople can
combine two tools of their choice with their base set, consisting of two batteries and a charger. A total of eleven tools with 10.8 volts are available to choose from, while there are 21 tools with 18 volts. A new feature is the fixed price per package.
Regardless of which tools the user chooses, he receives every 10.8 volt combination at the recommended retail price of 289 euros and every 18 volt combination for 599 euros, each excluding VAT. Every tool comes with a matching L-Boxx. Multiple L-Boxxes can be easily clicked together and then conveniently transported in a stack. The user therefore benefits from the “Clic & Go” system in three ways at once: he can individually compile his tools whilst simultaneously saving money, and he can easily transport his tools as well. We were able to increase our sales with cordless screwdrivers by four percent over the past year thanks to this concept, and the increase was 68 percent for all other tools in this system.
6 of 12
Successful sales through “Bosch Cordless Specialists”
Success is also being enjoyed by specialist retailers who focus on Bosch cordless tools in their marketing – the so-called “Bosch Cordless Specialists”. These retailers benefit from the marketing support for the salesroom, while their customers benefit from the free “24-month ProService” ‒ a two-year repair service which goes well beyond the usual manufacturer’s
guarantee and covers the tool, battery pack and charger. “Bosch Cordless Specialists” achieve higher sales increases than their competitors. From 2010 to 2013, sales with cordless tools at specialist retail outlets grew by ten percent in total. Bosch retailers who are not “Cordless Specialists” achieved sales growth of 33 percent, while “Bosch Cordless Specialist” retailers increased their sales by 52 percent. This corresponds to annual average growth of only three percent at specialist retail outlets, ten percent for non-“Bosch Cordless Specialist” retailers and 15 percent for “Bosch Cordless Specialist” retailers.
Professional tradespeople appreciate Bosch’s online offerings
The importance of the internet as a communication and information medium is also growing in the trades. Our online offerings are increasingly popular: In 2013, the Bosch website for professional power tools registered more than 3.7 million visitors, which is about 23 percent more than in the previous year. Our newsletter is subscribed to by over one million interested tradespeople and industrial companies, which is 20 percent more than in the previous year. The number of registered members in our Bosch Professional Community “Bob” grew at the same time by 28 percent. About 28,000 registered members already use “Bob” to discuss specific
7 of 12 everyday work problems with expert colleagues, pose their
questions directly to the Bosch expert team and give sugges-tions themselves. Rising membership figures are also being registered by our Facebook community for professionals. Among the 23,000 fans, the age group of 20 to 40 year-olds is especially prevalent.
Significant sales increase with DIY tools
Our offerings for do-it-yourselfers continue to be very popular. As a result, Bosch performed much better than the market in this segment again in 2013. The number of power tools sold in Germany grew by two percent to 3.3 million3, while the value
grew by three percent to 248 million euros3. Bosch, however,
managed to increase its sales with DIY tools from the Bosch and Skil brands by nine percent.
Bosch is the most sought-after brand among German do-it-yourselfers. Our market share is 48 percent3. The Ixo cordless
screwdriver again led the way, continuing to be the best-selling power tool in Germany again in 2013. The enthusiasm it
generates is demonstrated by customer reviews such as “My Ixo willingly screws together an entire company of furniture”. Other tools also receive top scores, such as the PSR 18 LI-2 cordless drill/driver referred to as “powerful and smooth-running” or the PRR 250 ES sanding roller recommended as an exceptionally versatile tool due to its various attachments.
The willingness to buy our quality products and innovations remains high, with 17 of the 20 best-selling power tools in
3Due to a change in the data basis, this year’s figures are only comparable to an extent with the figures published in 2013.
8 of 12 German homecenters in 2013 made by Bosch. Cordless tools
with lithium-ion technology are especially important here, with 77 percent4 of all German cordless tools in 2013 equipped with
this technology. This figure was only 56 percent4 in 2009. Bosch
holds a market share of 60 percent4 for lithium-ion
battery-powered tools. This strong position in the market is based on the continuous launching of innovative cordless tools, our “Power4All” cordless systems with tools for cordless freedom in the house and garden, and our successful multi-channel marketing.
Innovative PST 10,8 LI multi saw
The PST 10,8 LI multi saw was launched as a 10.8 volt system tool last year and again demonstrates the innovative strength of Bosch. It combines the functions of a jigsaw, saber saw and branch saw in one tool. This is made possible by its innovative SDS system: for the first time, the jigsaw blade can be fitted in the tool in two different directions. If you turn the saw teeth forwards, the tool is guided as a jigsaw. If you turn the saw teeth backwards, the PST 10,8 LI can be used as a saber saw and can, for example, also prune branches.
Continual expansion of the “Power4All” systems
We meet the wishes of users exceptionally well with our “Power4All” cordless system. Do-it-yourselfers can operate different tools within the same voltage class with only one changeable battery, thus foregoing superfluous batteries and chargers and at the same time saving money. In March 2013 we launched the 10.8 volt system in addition to the 18 volt system
4Due to a change in the data basis, this year’s figures are only comparable to an extent with the figures published in 2013.
9 of 12 and expanded it in July from six to nine tools. It currently
comprises the PSR 10,8 LI drill/driver, the PSB 10,8 LI-2 combi drill, the PMF 10,8 LI multifunction tool, the PSM 10,8 LI multi-sander, the Uneo multi-talented tool for hammering, drilling and screwdriving, the PST 10,8 LI multi saw, the PLI 10,8 LI light, and the AHS 35-15 LI and AHS 45-15 LI hedgecutters. We expanded the tried-and-tested 18 volt cordless system in October from nine to eleven tools, adding the PKS 18 LI hand-held circular saw and the PSA 18 LI saber saw.
Success due to multi-channel marketing
We attract great attention for the supply and demand for our products by means of our multi-channel marketing. We network online and offline offers in order to communicate with and reach our users across all channels ‒ be it through advertise-ments in print media, placeadvertise-ments at retail outlets, or our DIY community. In addition to this, retail promotions and customer reviews on the internet help to strengthen our presence and the trust in our brand.
Bosch strengthens market leadership in measuring tools segment
We have further strengthened our leading position for DIY measuring tools. Whereas the market volume in Germany grew by 13 percent5 in 2013, Bosch managed to grow three times as
fast as the market with a sales increase of 41 percent5. We
achieved this above all due to convincing innovations. An
example of this is the PLR 15 laser rangefinder, which has made laser technology accessible to people with little experience of using measuring tools. As small and handy as a marker pen, the
5Due to a change in the data basis, this year’s figures are only comparable to an extent with the figures published in 2013.
10 of 12 PLR 15 excels due to its self-explanatory single-button
operation and replaces the classical folding rule. Bosch is also market leader by some distance in all three disciplines – measuring, detecting, leveling. All ten of the best-selling measuring tools in German homecenters are from Bosch.
Do-it-yourselfers appreciate Bosch’s online offerings
Our online offering, which serves the purpose of both information and communication, is popular with do-it-yourselfers. Our website for DIY tools registered 1.9 million visitors in 2013, which was 15 percent more than in the previous year. 23,000 do-it-yourselfers subscribe to our newsletter, which corresponds to an increase of 35 percent. The Bosch 1-2-do.com community is Germany’s biggest DIY
community with around 80,000 members ‒ which is 60 percent
more than in the previous year. The number of visitors to the corresponding websites increased by 67 percent to five million, while the number of member’s projects grew by 40 percent. About 7,000 projects now inspire members to do DIY and
decoration. Rising membership figures are also being registered by our Facebook community for do-it-yourselfers. It now has 140,000 fans, which is more than twice as many as the previous year. 22.5 million people have seen the content at “Bosch DIY & Garden Germany” over the past year. We achieved this high coverage by means of interactive communication with users, games, promotions and campaign-related Facebook adverts.
New communication platform: “MyBosch”
We will be using our new communication platform called “MyBosch” in order to enable us to speak to our users even more personally in future and to individually enter into dialog
