Legrand uses external growth to fuel development and expand market share, taking a targeted approach with bolt-on acquisitions of leading companies. Over time, it has developed know-how and intends to pursue this acquisition strategy over the long term.
Acquisitions—alongside innovation—are one of Legrand's two growth drivers
Quote
“Our acquisitions enable us to strengthen our positions and fuel our growth.”
Executive VP, Corporate Development
Key Figures
67 acquisitions
announced since 2004
About €2.9bn in annual
acquired sales since 2004
173 companies acquired
since 1954
Targeted acquisitions
Legrand takes a targeted approach to acquisitions, focusing on companies that complement its activities and have leading positions on buoyant markets, such as digital infrastructures, IoT and energy efficiency.
Digital infrastructures: Universal Electric Corporation
In 2019 Legrand continued its growth in digital infrastructures by acquiring Universal Electric Corporation, the undisputed leader in data center busways in the United States. This operation strengthens the Group’s offerings in this promising market, where Legrand already had a significant presence in Voice-Data-Image cabinets (Electrorack, AFCO Systems), structured cabling solutions (Ortronics), PDUs (Raritan, Server Technology), KVM (Raritan) and pre-terminated solutions (Lastar/Quiktron). Legrand is now well positioned to offer a comprehensive solution for white space infrastructure needs.
Connectrac strengthens Legrand’s position in cable management
In 2019 Legrand strengthened its position as a global leader in cable management by acquiring Connectrac, an innovative US company specializing in over-floor power and data distribution for new construction and renovation of commercial buildings.
Jobo Smartech acquisition adds expertise in connected hotel-room management systems
Jobo Smartech, a Chinese leader in connected hotel-room management solutions, also joined the Group in 2019. With expertise in controlling lighting, room temperature and more, Jobo Smartech rounds out Legrand’s offer in China’s dynamic hotel segment.
Experience and expertise
In addition to innovation—generating a steady stream of new, high value-added product launches—acquisitions have been a historical driver for Legrand’s growth.
Since 1954 the Group has bought 173 companies in its core businesses, in complementary segments and in the most promising technological areas.
And since year-end 2004, it has made 67 acquisitions representing annual acquired sales of about €2.9 billion.
Seizing opportunities
Legrand teams are constantly on the lookout for new acquisitions, using their in-depth knowledge of local players to identify likely candidates in a fragmented market.
Being close to markets is one key to the success of the Group’s acquisition policy, making it easier to find and assess investment opportunities It also smooths the acquisition process and facilitates the docking process once a deal has been completed.
In addition, a dedicated Corporate Development unit oversees the entire acquisition process, stepping in as needed to coordinate the various teams involved.
A well-organized docking process
Legrand has set up a process with a clearly defined timeframe for docking new acquisitions. The aim is to bring newcomers into the Group smoothly, harnessing all possible synergies while enabling them to achieve their own growth potential.
Netatmo: French leader in the smart home market
Acquired in 2018 and docked in 2019, Netatmo is the leading French player in connected objects for the home, designing simple, intelligent solutions that make homes safer and more comfortable. As part of “with Netatmo,” its program of partnerships with companies in the building industry, Netatmo also designs smart solutions that can be built into home infrastructures.
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