IDEX Corporation
| Company type | Public |
|---|---|
| Industry | Industrial manufacturing |
| Founded | 1988 |
| Founder | Kohlberg Kravis Roberts (acquisition of divisions from Houdaille Industries) |
| Headquarters | Northbrook, Illinois , United States |
Area served | Worldwide (approx. 20 countries) |
Key people | Eric Ashleman (CEO) |
| Products | Fluid management devices (pumps, valves, flow meters), air compressors, optical filters, hydraulic rescue tools, fire suppression systems |
Number of employees | 9,000 (2025) |
IDEX Corporation is an international industrial enterprise based in Northbrook, Illinois. The company specializes in the development, design, and manufacturing of systems related to fluidics, optical technologies, fire and rescue apparatus, along with various other engineered specialty products. As of February 2025, IDEX maintains operations across roughly 20 nations and employs close to 9,000 individuals. It is publicly listed and included in the S&P 500 index.
History
The inception of IDEX dates back to 1988 when Kohlberg Kravis Roberts acquired certain divisions from Houdaille Industries. Donald N. Boyce was appointed as the inaugural chairman and CEO. The company successfully raised $3.3 million through its initial public offering in June 1989.
In May 1994, IDEX expanded its fire and safety segment by acquiring Hale Products, Inc. for $90 million, adding products such as fire trucks, portable pumps, and ventilation systems to its lineup. By 1996, after completing ten acquisitions, the company’s annual revenue approached $562 million.
The acquisition of Gast Manufacturing for $118 million in January 1998 broadened IDEX’s product range to include compressors, vacuum pumps, and air motors. Later that year, Frank Hansen took over as CEO from Boyce to continue advancing the company’s acquisition strategy.
In 2011, IDEX enhanced its pharmaceutical research and manufacturing capabilities by acquiring Microfluidics International, specializing in nanoparticle technology.
The company sustained its expansion through further acquisitions: Phantom Controls in 2018 (focused on pump systems), Abel Pumps LP in 2021 (producers of reciprocating positive displacement pumps for mining, marine, and power sectors), and Airtech Group alongside US Valve Corporation in 2021 (manufacturers of pressure technology products including vacuum pumps and valves).
In September 2022, IDEX grew its health and science technologies division by purchasing the Netherlands-based Muon Group for EUR700 million, incorporating subsidiaries such as LouwersHanique and Millux. In July 2024, the company announced intentions to acquire Mott Corp for $1 billion to further bolster this sector.
Operations
IDEX—standing for "Innovation, Diversity, and Excellence"—consists of more than 50 primarily autonomous subsidiaries operating within approximately 20 countries. Its business is structured into three main segments: Fluid and Metering Technologies; Health and Science Technologies; and Fire and Safety and Diversified Products.
With headquarters located in Northbrook, Illinois, IDEX employs nearly 9,000 personnel as of February 2025. The firm is publicly traded on the New York Stock Exchange and forms part of the S&P 500. Eric Ashleman serves as CEO, responsible for guiding global operations and strategic direction.
Products
IDEX produces a broad range of industrial equipment and components catering to markets including agriculture, pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, and fire safety. Its product suite features fluid management devices such as pumps, valves, and flow meters. Additionally, the company manufactures air compressors, optical filters, hydraulic rescue tools, and fire suppression systems. Recent acquisitions like Mott Corp and Iridian Technologies have expanded IDEX’s capabilities in optical technologies while strengthening its presence within specialized industrial sectors.