LACO Technologies, Inc. to Join Atlas Copco Group in Strategic Acquisition Strengthening Vacuum and Leak Detection Capabilities
LACO Technologies, a well-established designer and manufacturer of advanced vacuum solutions and precision leak testing systems, is set to become part of Atlas Copco Group, marking a significant development in the global vacuum technology and industrial equipment landscape. The acquisition reflects Atlas Copco Group’s continued commitment to expanding its technological footprint and strengthening its portfolio in high-performance vacuum and leak detection systems, particularly within the United States market. With decades of engineering expertise, strong customer relationships, and a reputation for delivering turnkey vacuum solutions, LACO’s integration into the Atlas Copco organization represents a strategic alignment of complementary capabilities and long-term growth ambitions.
Expanding Vacuum Technology Expertise Through Strategic Integration
The addition of LACO to Atlas Copco Group underscores the growing importance of vacuum technology and precision leak detection across a wide array of industries, including aerospace, advanced research, and complex industrial manufacturing. LACO, headquartered in Salt Lake City, Utah, has built its reputation by designing and manufacturing comprehensive vacuum systems, high-performance vacuum chambers, and advanced leak detection equipment tailored to meet demanding performance standards. These solutions are engineered to support critical applications where reliability, accuracy, and operational efficiency are paramount.
By bringing LACO into its organizational structure, Atlas Copco Group further enhances its expertise in leak detection technologies while expanding its portfolio of turnkey vacuum systems manufactured in the United States. This strategic expansion strengthens Atlas Copco’s position in North America, one of the world’s most significant industrial and aerospace markets, while reinforcing its global leadership in vacuum solutions. The acquisition not only broadens technological capabilities but also deepens customer access to specialized vacuum chamber engineering and integrated leak detection platforms.
A Legacy of Innovation and Trusted Partnerships Since 1975
Founded in 1975 as a family-owned enterprise, LACO has demonstrated steady and sustained growth over five decades by focusing on product quality, technical innovation, and close collaboration with customers. The company’s journey from a small family business to a respected partner in advanced vacuum and leak detection systems illustrates its resilience and adaptability within an evolving industrial landscape. Through continuous investment in engineering excellence and manufacturing precision, LACO has cultivated long-term partnerships across aerospace, research laboratories, defense-related projects, and specialized industrial sectors.
Koen Lauwers, Business Area President Vacuum Technique at Atlas Copco Group, highlighted the significance of LACO’s heritage and growth trajectory, emphasizing that the company has become a trusted partner due to the quality of its products and the dedication of its people. This recognition underscores the cultural alignment between the two organizations, both of which prioritize engineering integrity, customer-centric solutions, and sustainable long-term value creation. The acquisition is therefore not merely an expansion of assets but also an integration of talent, experience, and a strong service-oriented mindset.
Strengthening the Vacuum Technique Business Area
Upon completion of the transaction, LACO will become part of the Scientific Vacuum division within Atlas Copco Group’s Vacuum Technique Business Area. This division focuses on delivering advanced vacuum technologies that support research institutions, semiconductor manufacturing, aerospace engineering, and other high-precision industries. By incorporating LACO’s capabilities into the Scientific Vacuum division, Atlas Copco enhances its ability to offer end-to-end solutions ranging from vacuum generation and control systems to custom-engineered chambers and leak detection instrumentation.
The Vacuum Technique Business Area is recognized globally for its innovation in vacuum pumps, gas abatement systems, and integrated vacuum solutions. The addition of LACO’s expertise in turnkey systems further complements this offering, enabling the group to provide more comprehensive and application-specific solutions. Customers will benefit from expanded engineering support, improved system integration, and broader access to technical resources across multiple regions. This move reinforces Atlas Copco’s strategy of combining organic growth with targeted acquisitions to maintain technological leadership and respond to evolving customer requirements.
Enhancing U.S.-Based Manufacturing and Market Presence
One of the strategic advantages of the acquisition is the addition of a strong U.S.-based manufacturing operation specializing in vacuum chambers and leak detection systems. LACO’s operations in Salt Lake City provide Atlas Copco with enhanced production capabilities within the United States, supporting faster delivery times, localized engineering collaboration, and closer proximity to key aerospace and research customers. In an environment where supply chain resilience and regional manufacturing capacity have become increasingly important, this acquisition strengthens Atlas Copco’s operational flexibility and responsiveness in North America.
LACO employs approximately 110 individuals who will join Atlas Copco Group as part of the acquisition. The integration of these employees brings valuable technical knowledge, application expertise, and manufacturing skills into the broader Atlas Copco organization. Their experience in building custom vacuum systems and precision leak detection equipment will play a crucial role in further developing specialized offerings tailored to complex industrial requirements. Maintaining continuity of expertise while leveraging global resources will be central to realizing the full value of the transaction.
Financial Performance and Growth Potential
During 2025, LACO generated revenues of approximately 25 million US dollars, equivalent to around 247 million Swedish kronor. This financial performance reflects steady demand for vacuum chambers, leak detection systems, and integrated vacuum solutions across multiple high-technology sectors. Although the purchase price has not been disclosed, the revenue level and established market presence indicate that LACO represents a meaningful addition to Atlas Copco’s Scientific Vacuum division.
Beyond its existing revenue base, LACO offers significant growth potential as part of a global industrial group with expanded distribution networks, research capabilities, and service infrastructure. Atlas Copco’s international reach and customer base create opportunities for LACO’s products to access new geographic markets and industry segments. At the same time, Atlas Copco’s broader technology portfolio can be combined with LACO’s turnkey systems to create integrated solutions that deliver enhanced value to customers. This synergy is expected to contribute to long-term revenue growth and operational efficiency.
Regulatory Approval and Expected Closing Timeline
The acquisition remains subject to regulatory approval, reflecting standard compliance requirements for transactions of this nature. Both organizations anticipate that the deal will close during the second quarter of 2026, pending necessary clearances and customary closing conditions. Once finalized, LACO will be fully integrated into the Scientific Vacuum division, aligning operational structures, reporting frameworks, and strategic initiatives.
The structured timeline ensures that both companies can prepare for a smooth transition, safeguarding customer relationships and maintaining ongoing projects without disruption. Clear communication with stakeholders, including employees, customers, and partners, will be a priority throughout the integration process. By carefully managing the transition, Atlas Copco aims to preserve LACO’s entrepreneurial spirit while leveraging the strengths of a global industrial leader.
Advancing Innovation in Aerospace, R&D, and Industrial Applications
LACO’s portfolio serves a diverse range of industries where vacuum integrity and leak detection accuracy are mission-critical. In aerospace manufacturing, vacuum chambers and leak testing systems are essential for validating components that must perform reliably under extreme conditions. In research and development environments, precise vacuum control enables experimentation in material science, electronics, and advanced physics. Across industrial applications, leak detection ensures product quality, safety compliance, and operational reliability.
By combining LACO’s specialized engineering capabilities with Atlas Copco’s global technology platform, the acquisition enhances the ability to support innovation in these sectors. Customers can expect continued investment in product development, advanced materials, automation, and digital integration within vacuum systems. The collaboration may also facilitate advancements in smart monitoring, predictive maintenance, and system optimization, reflecting broader trends toward Industry 4.0 and data-driven manufacturing environments.
Long-Term Strategic Vision and Market Impact
The integration of LACO into Atlas Copco Group represents a forward-looking strategy aimed at reinforcing leadership in vacuum technology and leak detection solutions. As industries increasingly demand higher precision, reliability, and compliance standards, the need for comprehensive vacuum systems continues to grow. This acquisition positions Atlas Copco to address those demands with enhanced technical depth, localized manufacturing capacity, and expanded product offerings.
Moreover, the transaction illustrates Atlas Copco’s ongoing commitment to targeted acquisitions that complement its existing strengths while unlocking new areas of specialization. By welcoming LACO’s team of experienced professionals and integrating its advanced manufacturing capabilities, Atlas Copco strengthens its competitive position within the global vacuum technology market.
Ultimately, the acquisition brings together two organizations united by a shared emphasis on engineering excellence, customer partnership, and sustainable growth. With regulatory approval pending and closing expected in the second quarter of 2026, the planned integration signals a new chapter for LACO and a strategic enhancement for Atlas Copco’s Vacuum Technique Business Area. As part of a globally recognized industrial group, LACO is poised to expand its reach and continue delivering high-performance vacuum and leak detection solutions to customers worldwide, reinforcing innovation across aerospace, research, and industrial manufacturing sectors.
Source Link:https://www.atlascopcogroup.com/
