Company Story
1908 - Illinois Tool Works Inc. was founded by Byron L. Smith in Chicago, Illinois.
1915 - The company developed its first proprietary product, the Toggle Nut, a type of fastener used in the assembly of automobiles.
1920 - ITW expanded its product line to include self-tapping screws and other fasteners.
1930 - The company went public with an initial public offering (IPO) of stock.
1940 - ITW began to diversify its product line, acquiring companies that manufactured products such as welding equipment and food processing machinery.
1950 - The company expanded internationally, establishing operations in Canada and Europe.
1960 - ITW acquired the Devcon Corporation, a manufacturer of adhesives and sealants.
1970 - The company continued to expand globally, establishing operations in Asia and Latin America.
1980 - ITW acquired the Hobart Brothers Company, a manufacturer of welding equipment and accessories.
1990 - The company acquired the Premark International, a manufacturer of food processing machinery.
2000 - ITW acquired the DeVilbiss Air Power Company, a manufacturer of air compressors and pneumatic tools.
2010 - The company acquired the Matador, a manufacturer of welding equipment and accessories.
2015 - ITW acquired the EF&C, a manufacturer of welding equipment and accessories.