Northern Europe is big area so making a claim that it the same in all countries because someone you know happed to stay in one particular country in Europe really is nonsense. (For the record power tools are not that expensive in most parts of Europe)

Power tools have their place but if you have fine tolerances (And with circuit boards and pressed/moulded parts you do) then hand tools are much more efficient. (You wouldn’t use a sledge hammer to knock in a nail)

Bill