Makita Power Tools

General information

Makita was founded by Mr.Mosaburo Makita in 1915, as a repairer of electric motors under the name “MAKITA DENKI SEISAKUSA”. ( Makita Electric Machine Company.) In 1958, Makita introduced its first electric tool. The 1000 model planer, which was also the first electric planer ever, produced in Japan.In 1960 Makita discontinued motor manufacturing and focused entirely on power tools. By 1963 the company was able to liquidate all liabilities through huge profits. In 1968 Makita was rated the No. 1 company in Japan regarding overall operations and financial position.

In the 1980’s Makita’s Expansion into world markets became unstoppable. Today Makita is one of the world's largest power tool manufacturers, with seven manufacturing facilities globally and a selection of more than 1000 superior, innovative products. Some of these products have become “celebrities” in their own right.

In the mid 1990’s, former US president Bill Clinton was hard at work using the 6311 12-volt cordless driver drill to help rebuild a church that had burnt down over Christmas time. A photograph of Clinton sporting the 6311 appeared in magazines and newspapers worldwide.

In the late 1990’s American space agency NASA selected the Makita 6213D cordless drill for use in one of its space shuttle missions to assist with the construction of a space station. The 6213D performed to expectations on day 8 and 9 of the mission and was a “world topping” demonstration of the performance and reliability of the Makita. The NASA home page showed pictures taken during the mission, including the Makita 6213D in action.

•In the early 60’s Rutherford became one of 3 importers of the Makita power tool brand in South Africa. •Rutherford was established in 1924 as an engineering supply company and became involved in power tools, and woodworking machinery in the mid forties.

Since 1985, when Rutherford was appointed as the sole distributor of the brand, Makita power tool sales have increased, and today Makita is one of the brand leaders in the Southern Africa region. The reputation of high quality, new technology, durability and service back-up are major reasons for its success.

Other activities at Rutherford include: Sole importer and distributor of Mercury and Mariner outboard boat motors, sole importer and distributor of Topcon and Troxler, sophisticated instrumentation for the construction, land surveying and mining industries. The company also distributes FTS rivets throughout SA.

•Rutherford is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hudaco and has three fully equipped branches in Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban.