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Coastal Tool: A Family Story Powered by Service

By Irene O’Connor, Linked Media

When Rob Ludgin opened Coastal Tool & Supply in 1980, there was no roadmap for a family-owned tool business. At the time, the tool supply world was dominated by big industrial distributors. No local storefronts. No websites. No one catering to both large contractors and the Saturday-morning DIY-er.

After talking with a family friend in California, he came up with an idea: combine high-quality tools with personalized service – and build a place where customers would want to come back. He started small, first on Sisson Avenue in Hartford, then later moved the business to 510 New Park Avenue, becoming one of the founding members West Hartford’s Design District.

Then, in January of 2020, Coastal Tool made its latest move – just a few doors down to 571 New Park Avenue in the Design District, where it continues to thrive today.

A Legacy Passed Down

From a young age, Rob’s son, Andy Ludgin was part of Coastal Tool. At just 11 years old, he was spending Saturdays at the shop – unloading trucks, stocking shelves, and learning the business from his father, Rob.

Like his father, Andy graduated from Hall High School in West Hartford. After high school, he ventured out, earning his degree from the University of Arizona, then heading to New York City to work as a trader. But the call of home – and the family business – was always there.

In 2002, Andy moved back to Connecticut with his wife and stepped into a full-time role at Coastal Tool, honoring the values his father instilled.

Ahead of the Curve – Since the Beginning

Innovation has always been part of Coastal Tool’s DNA. In 1995 – long before most people had even heard of e-commerce – Coastal Tool became the first tool retailer in the country to sell tools online. It was a bold move that helped the small, family-run store compete on a national scale.

Today, Rob and Andy continue that forward-thinking approach. They’ve watched the industry shift with the rise of big box stores, Amazon, and the transition from corded to cordless, lithium-ion battery-powered tools.

But through all the changes, one thing has stayed the same: service matters.

A Store Built for Professionals and Homeowners Alike

Coastal Tool serves a wide range of customers—from major contractors and HVAC professionals to municipalities, school systems, and homeowners working on weekend projects.

Andy says you’ll find the all the big names at Coastal Tool:

• DeWalt
• Makita
• Bosch
• Stanley
• And many more.

From nails to Nailers, drills to drywall sanders, Coastal Tool has built a reputation for carrying a thoughtful selection of high-performance, brand-name tools – with competitive pricing and personalized service.

Real People. Real Service.

Walk into Coastal Tool, and it’s immediately clear you’re not in a big box store. You’re not hunting for help down an empty aisle. You’re greeted by someone who knows the products and understands exactly what you need. Many of Coastal Tool’s employees have been with the company for 30 or even 40 years. Customers have grown up with the store just like Andy did. It’s a place where relationships still matter.

“We’re the supermarket of power tools,” Andy says. “But with better merchandise, more knowledgeable staff, and real customer relationships.”  Whether it’s a school placing a bulk order, a contractor needing a specialty item rushed in, or a homeowner just getting into tools – every customer gets the same attention and care.

Andy says one of the most rewarding parts of the job is helping customers find exactly the right tool, at the right price and staying ahead of the curve helping customers get the right products often before they even know they need it.

From a father’s vision to a multigenerational success, Coastal Tool is more than just a tool store. It’s a West Hartford original serving the community, adapting with the times, and proving that personal service still matters.

Coastal Tool & Supply
571 New Park Avenue
West Hartford, CT   06110
Website: www.coastaltool.com

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