Other news at Stanley

How are the folks at the Stanley Works reacting to the biggest tool deal of the century—the blockbuster $4.5-billion all-stock acquisition of Black & Decker?

They’re ignoring it.

At least that’s the mind-set of some of the marketing and development team. Until the deal is signed on the dotted line—the deal is expected to close in the first half of 2010—it’s business as usual.

For Stanley’s Bostitch brand, that means introducing a line of hand tools that the company hopes will become its “Lexus” brand for the pro user.

Bostitch brand tape rules, twin-blade knives and AntiVibe hammers are part of the new pro-oriented lineup for the company better known for pneumatics, compressors and nailers.

“This is a new line targeting specifically pro distribution,” said Beau Parker, VP and general manager, global marketing and Stanley International divisions.

The expansion of the line comes at a time when the industry looks ahead to the creation of Stanley Black & Decker. But until the deal receives regulatory and shareholder approval, it’s business as usual, said Parker.

“We’re continuing on,” he said. “[The deal] hasn’t affected the way the company has approached development and marketing.”