There aren't many companies around today that can say they've been in business for more than 100 years, much less 125. This year, CHANNELLOCK^® can make that statement, thanks in part to our commitment to innovation and technology.

Since our founding in 1886, CHANNELLOCK^® engineers, craftsmen and salesmen have been incorporating technology and innovation into the designing, manufacturing and sale of all our tools -- from the invention of the multi-position, tongue and groove, slip-joint style plier in 1933, to the laser heat-treated cutting edges you'll find on all our linemen's pliers today.

CHANNELLOCK^®'s adoption of technology goes beyond the factory floor. For example, the next time you're in the store and looking at a display of CHANNELLOCK^® tools, look closely at the packaging. You will soon see what looks like a square of black and white squiggles.

If you're not familiar with this, it's called a "QR code," which is short for "quick response" code. If you have a newer model smartphone, it probably has an app that will read QR codes. If not, you can download a free QR code reader application. These apps allow your phone to read the code and acess additional information about the CHANNELLOCK^® tool you've just scanned.

The QR code on the packaging will take you directly to a Plier University video, where we show you why the CHANNELLOCK^® tool you're considering is a better value and better tool than you'll find with any competing brand.

Don't have a smartphone? No problem. You can check out our Plier U videos by going to the CHANNELLOCK^® YouTube channel here. You'll find all of the educational videos we've put together, and even some commercials you may soon see on television. It's all part of our commitment to keep an open line of communication with loyal CHANNELLOCK^® customers and fans.

Michele M. King

Communications & Training Manager

Channellock, Inc.