Merchandise Spotlight-Leatherman Tool (664 words)
A mechanical engineer in Portland, OR, got patent 4,238,962 this week for a pocket tool that he calls Mr. Crunch. Timothy S. Leatherman thinks hunters, campers and cyclists will find it convenient.
When it was finally ready for market, retailers and catalogers turned up their noses because they couldn't figure out which department it belonged in. Among the tools it contains: pliers, knife, file, wire cutters, screwdrivers, container openers and ruler. Subsequent models include scissors, saw, wire stripper, electrical crimper, a choice of six screwdrivers and tweezers.
Denny Hatch is the author of six books on marketing and four novels, and is a direct marketing writer, designer and consultant. His latest book is “Write Everything Right!” Visit him at dennyhatch.com.
