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Beginnings 19th century
The Schneider brothers invest in the Creusot foundries and become major players in the steel and machine industry. Soon, Schneider & Cie. enters the emerging electricity market.
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Reconstruction Early 20th century
After two world wars our company emerges as a diversified business that quickly expands into new markets, including construction and electricity.
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Evolution Late 20th century
The Schneider Group grows through strategic acquisitions and focuses on the electrical industry, energy management and innovative technologies.
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Today 21st century
With a unique portfolio of connected technologies: connected products, edge control and apps, analytics and services, we are the global specialist in energy management and automation.
Our great adventure
Our company was born during the first Industrial Revolution. Nearly 180 years later, and through enduring dedication, expertise, and the combined strength of acquired businesses, we continue to deliver innovation at every level.
Milestone dates
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1836
Brothers Schneider acquire mines and forges at Le Creusot, France. Two years later they create Schneider & Cie. -
1891
Having become an armaments specialist, the company launches itself into the emerging electricity market. -
1919
The company expands into Germany and Eastern Europe via the European Industrial and Financial Union (EIFU). -
1949
In-depth restructuring led by Charles Schneider takes place after World War II. -
1975
The Schneider Group acquires an interest in Merlin Gerin, one of the leaders in electrical distribution equipment. -
1981-1997
The company divests from steel and shipbuilding and focuses mainly on electricity through strategic acquisitions. -
1999
The Group develops Installation, Systems and Control with the acquisition of Lexel and adopts its current name. -
2000-2009
Period of organic growth and acquisitions in new market segments: UPS, movement control, building automation and security. -
2010-Present
Schneider Electric further reinforces its position in software, critical power and smart grid applications.
Today and tomorrow
We develop innovative, connected technologies and solutions for safety, reliability, efficiency, and sustainability.
Learn more
History of our brand
Throughout history, we have made many technological breakthroughs and strategic choices. Discover some of the business acquisitions that helped build our unique position and technology portfolio.- APC Leader in single-phase UPS and critical power protection systems acquired in 2007
- Clipsal Founded in 1920 in Australia, this electrical accessory product brand was acquired in 2004
- Feller Founded in 1909, this Swiss company was acquired by Schneider Electric in 1992
- Foxboro The Foxboro brand was acquired by Schneider Electric in January 2014
- Invensys A global technology company with three business segments acquired in 2014
- Merlin Gerin Acquired In 1992, the brand’s products, solutions and services joined our electrical distribution offer in 2009
- Merten A pioneer in solutions for intelligent buildings, acquired in 2006
- Pelco A leader in the video and security industry, a part of our Buildings business since 2008
- Square D In 1991 we acquired Square D, an innovative company in the electricity and automation management markets
- TAC We acquired TAC in 2003, and in 2009, TAC's offer was migrated to the Schneider Electric brand
- Telemecanique A leader in industrial automation and control, acquired by Schneider Group in 1988
- Telvent A global IT solutions and information services provider acquired in September 2014
- Triconex The Triconex brand was acquired by Schneider Electric in January 2014