Emerson Company Profile
Founded in 1890 in St. Louis, Missouri, Emerson began as Emerson Electric Manufacturing Co., established by Civil War Union veteran John Wesley Emerson. The company initially focused on producing electric motors based on a patent owned by Scottish-born brothers Charles and Alexander Meston. In 1892, Emerson made history by becoming the first company in the USA to sell electric fans. The product line soon expanded to include electric sewing machines, dental drills, and power tools.
World War II Contribution
During World War II, under the leadership of Stuart Symington, Emerson became the world’s largest manufacturer of aircraft armament. The company ranked 52nd among U.S. corporations in the value of WWII military production contracts. Symington later became the first U.S. Secretary of the Air Force (1947-1950), a U.S. Senator from Missouri (1953-1976), and a presidential nominee in 1960.
Leadership and Growth
In 1954, W.R. “Buck” Persons was appointed president, leading Emerson through significant diversification by acquiring 36 firms. By his retirement in 1973, Emerson operated 82 plants, employed 31,000 people, and generated $800 million in sales. Charles F. Knight, CEO from 1973 to 2000 and chairman from 1974 to 2004, introduced a rigorous planning process, spurred new product and technology development, and expanded through acquisitions and international growth. David Farr has served as CEO since 2000 and chairman since 2004.
Strategic Acquisitions
On December 15, 1999, Emerson acquired Jordan Industries Inc’s telecommunications equipment business for $440 million to enhance its growth prospects. On July 26, 2011, Emerson announced it would establish its Latin America headquarters in Sunrise, Florida.
Current Operations
Emerson is a diversified global manufacturing company that integrates technology and engineering to provide innovative solutions for industrial, commercial, and consumer markets. Its business segments include Process Management, Industrial Automation, Network Power, Climate Technologies, and Commercial & Residential Solutions.
Emerson continues to be a leader in delivering cutting-edge technology and engineering solutions, maintaining a commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction across various industries worldwide.