It was with great sadness that we opened up this issue of Tools of the Trade and read from Editor Chris Ermides that this would be the magazine’s final issue in print. Tools of the Trade magazine has been around long, long time and certainly represented one of the most hands-on magazines in the construction tool industry. Once affectionately referred to by some as “Product Manager Monthly”, the magazine had to deal with the changes brought on by the Internet, social media, and “Buyer 2.0” movements that changed the relevance of print in the industry. This Tools of the Trade magazine final issue certainly marks a milestone in the industry, and one that should remind us all that it’s not the medium, but the content that impacts consumers, enthusiasts, and Pros.
We still feel print has a place in the industry, but it’s certainly a much different market than it was in its heyday.
Tools of the Trade Magazine Final Issue
The final issue of Tools of the Trade magazine also reminds us of all the great editors that helped that magazine thrive over the years. Started in 1994, Tools of the Trade soon saw editor Rick Schwolsky take the helm from 1997-2007. Michael Springer, one of our freelance reviewers, served as executive editor of the magazine for a period of time, and more recently David Frane took the helm. Chris Ermides became the editor last year, and continues that role for the website, directing new content as it appears online. One thing is for certain—lots of great tradesman have passed through those pages over the years. So many, in fact, that we can’t possibly name them all.
We’re sad to see the magazine go, but there’s some excitement around what Chris and his crew have in store for us moving forward. The new website looks excellent and features optimizations for mobile users. Tools of the Trade also remains committed to its weekly newsletter, and they plan an increased emphasis on social media. We know that with the talent and resources available to them, this may just be a new beginning for Tools of the Trade.
One thing is for sure…If you’ve got the final issue, you’ll want to hang onto it. You’re holding a piece of publishing history.
