Emerson to Acquire Textron’s Tools and Test Equipment Business

Emerson

Apr 30, 2018

Emerson has signed an agreement to purchase the Tools and Test Equipment business of Textron for US$810 million.

Emerson has signed an agreement to purchase the Tools and Test Equipment business of Textron for US$810 million. Tools & Test is a leading manufacturer of electrical and utility tools, diagnostics, and test and measurement instruments with strong global distribution and highly respected brands, including Greenlee and Klauke. The acquisition, joined with Emerson’s Ridge Tool Company, creates a global US$1 billion professional tools business with the broadest offering for mechanical, electrical and plumbing contractors. Emerson expects the acquisition to be accretive to earnings in fiscal 2019 and immediately accretive to cash flow.

“This acquisition significantly contributes to Emerson’s investment strategy of adding complementary businesses that broaden our served markets and add key capabilities to meet the evolving needs of our customers and drive premium growth,” says Emerson Chairman and Chief Executive Officer David N. Farr. “The strong strategic fit with Ridge Tool provides a meaningful value creation opportunity for Emerson.

”Tools & Test’s longtime leadership in electrical joining, paired with the RIDGID portfolio of joining technologies for mechanical and plumbing applications, creates a leading position in a fast-growing segment, critical for meeting the safety and efficiency needs of the professional trades. In addition, Tools & Test brings offerings in diagnostics and other digital technologies that are an excellent fit with RIDGID.

Headquartered in Rockford, Ill., Tools & Test has 2,300 employees with 11 manufacturing locations around the world and 2017 sales of US$470 million.

The acquisition is expected to close within the next 90 days, subject to various regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions.

Related Articles


Changing Scene

  • AD Reports Robust Member Sales Growth in the First Three Months of 2026

    AD Reports Robust Member Sales Growth in the First Three Months of 2026

    AD reports that member sales through the first three months of 2026 increased 16% to nearly $28 billion across the group’s divisions and countries. Same-store sales of existing AD members increased by 10%. The U.S. Electrical and U.S. PVF Divisions led the way with 13% growth. Member purchases from AD suppliers increased 28%. AD’s member count… Read More…

  • Electromate Named One of Canada’s Best Workplaces by Great Place to Work

    Electromate Named One of Canada’s Best Workplaces by Great Place to Work

    Electromate Inc. has been recognized as the 95th Best Workplace in Canada in 2026 by Great Place to Work. This recognition reflects Electromate’s ongoing commitment to building a workplace grounded in employee engagement, trust, and a clearly defined company culture. Electromate places a strong emphasis on a leadership-driven culture. Through consistent communication, coaching programs, and… Read More…


Peers & Profiles