When STIHL marks one hundred years in business, it does so from a position few in the forestry equipment sector can match: a century shaped by engineering innovation and long-term relationships with professional users.
Founded in 1926 by Andreas Stihl in Germany, the company’s roots are deeply embedded in forestry. The invention of portable chainsaws transformed timber harvesting, and over the years, STIHL has grown into a comprehensive range of outdoor power tools. Today, the brand has a presence in over 160 countries, supported by a robust, independent dealer network that remains a core part of its business.
South African footprint
That dealer-driven approach has defined STIHL’s journey in South Africa since its establishment in November 1996, marking its first sales and marketing subsidiary on the African continent. Opened by Hans Peter Stihl, the operation has grown into a key supplier to the country’s forestry, agricultural and landscaping sectors.
Over three decades, STIHL South Africa, first under the leadership of Dave Hutton and now with his son, Hayden Hutton as Managing Director, has built a reputation for product quality and consistent support for its dealer network and end users. This approach has underpinned its steady growth in a competitive market.
Read the full story here – https://www.woodbizafrica.co.za/march-2026-issue-57/6/