Founded in 1888, Lobtex is a long-established company that celebrated its 120th anniversary in 2008. Initially known for manufacturing hair clippers, it began producing monkey wrenches in the early Showa era and has since become a comprehensive tool manufacturer handling hand tools, labor-saving tools, diamond tools, plumbing tools, fastening tools, and more.
The company is famous for its "Ebi-jirushi brand," which originates from the desire to create durable tools that can be used until one's back is bent, and also as a good luck charm. In fact, there is a constant stream of customer feedback saying, "Ebi-jirushi tools are durable."

"In the past, strength was the primary requirement for tools. But now, high strength is a given. In addition, ease of use is also required," says President Shiro Kimura. Traditionally, obtaining JIS standard certification was considered essential for tools. The monkey wrench developed by the company with the concept of being "thin, light, and easy for women to use" does not meet the JIS standard because the grip length is slightly shorter. However, it has been highly praised by users for its attractive appearance, achieved through a wide variety of colors such as red, blue, and green. Although it was the first non-JIS standard tool in the industry, other companies are now quickly following suit.
Air riveters, which have a head that rotates 360 degrees and can accurately drive rivets into the target area, are also attracting attention, including being featured on TV programs, with the aim of being adopted in the aircraft industry, where the highest level of safety is required.

"For a company to survive in the long term, it's essential to adapt to the times." The president has constantly questioned the very nature of the company itself.
The company has clarified the functions of each of its locations, transferring all production functions to its Tottori factory and positioning its headquarters in Higashi-Osaka as a research center. Furthermore, through "Active 21," a network formed primarily by Osaka-based tool manufacturers, they plan to jointly handle procurement and distribution, aiming to spread the superior quality of Japanese-made tools to the world.
"We won't just change blindly. We will maintain our Ebi-jirushi standards while responding to the needs of the times. There are things you can't understand just by looking at drawings, and that's the feel of holding the product in your hands. We want to cherish that." Ebi-jirushi's standards are not just about numbers. They are about never forgetting the on-site experience.

Manufacturing of hand tools, labor-saving tools, diamond tools, plumbing tools, fastening tools, etc.