NEW BRITAIN, Conn., March 8, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Stanley® Tools, a leading manufacturer of hand tools, is celebrating 50 years since the launch of the popular PowerLock® tape measure line. To commemorate this anniversary, Stanley® is releasing a limited edition series of five tape measures featuring unique designs dedicated to important highlights in the Powerlock® tape measure's rich history. The tributes include: a replication of the original "Life Guard Yellow" Powerlock® design; a celebration of "Made in the USA" with global materials; a testament to its inclusion in the Apollo 11 lunar landing gear; an homage to the famous Powerlock® moniker "Badge of the Professional"; and a nod to Stanley®'s Legacy of Invention.

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(Logo:  http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20121119/LA15955LOGO)

The classic D-shaped PowerLock® design was introduced in 1963 with the world's first coilable spring and sliding lock, which continue to be the core of modern day designs. In the 50 years since it was launched, the PowerLock® tape measure is one of the best selling tapes in the world. "We are excited to celebrate our heritage of innovation and proud of the fact it continues to be manufactured with global materials in the original plant here in New Britain, Connecticut, USA," said Tom Chang, Global Product Manager.

Each of these 25-foot tape measurers feature a sliding lock, which conveniently holds the blade in place, a rigid 7 feet of standout, Mylar® protective blade coating for durability, and a Tru-Zero™ end hook for accurate measurements. A new tape measure will be available every three months and the fifth one will be free with purchase of the first four. Available at independent channel hardware stores in March 2013 each tape will sell for approximately $9.99.

The 50^th anniversary of PowerLock® coincides with the company's momentous milestone of 170 years, originally founded in 1843.

Mylar® is a registered trademark of DuPont Teijin Films

Stanley®, a brand of Stanley Black & Decker, Inc. is a diversified worldwide supplier of tools and engineered solutions for professional, industrial, woodworking, construction and do-it-yourself use. For over 165 years, the trusted Stanley® brand has been synonymous with quality, value and reliability. Its well-known hand tool and storage brands include Stanley®, FatMax® and FatMax Xtreme®. Headquartered in New Britain, Conn., Stanley Black & Decker, Inc. operates multiple manufacturing facilities and sales offices throughout the globe. For more information, visit www.stanleytools.com or follow Stanley on Facebook and Twitter.

Summary:
Stanley® Tools is celebrating 50 years since the launch of the popular PowerLock® tape measure line. To commemorate this anniversary, Stanley® is releasing a limited edition series of five tape measures featuring unique designs dedicated to important highlights in the Powerlock® tape measure's rich history. Available at independent channel hardware stores in March 2013 each tape will sell for approximately $9.99.

Contact:

Kristin Perra, Marketing Communications
Stanley Black & Decker
Phone: 860-827-5480
E-mail: kristin.perra@sbdinc.com

SOURCE Stanley Black & Decker