Hilti acquires Concrete Sensors

Hilti, Schaan, Liechtenstein, a global supplier of tools, technology, software and services to the commercial construction industry, has acquired the assets of Boston-based Concrete Sensors, a provider of connected devices, software and services to better understand the concrete curing process.

Hilti stated one of the most critical and time-consuming phases in the construction process is waiting on poured concrete to develop strength, also known as the curing phase. Traditionally, monitoring this phase requires the use of cumbersome laboratory equipment and involves considerable time delays. However, in recent years, new technology has emerged to help optimize this process.

This acquisition builds on other recent Hilti investments to digitize the construction industry and simplify workflows for construction contractors and engineers.

“This acquisition directly aligns with our strategic priorities to put a greater focus on IoT,” says Martina McIsaac, president and CEO of Hilti North America. “Hilti is committed to supporting our customers’ digital transformations. Beyond the strategic rationale and product offering, this is an ideal cultural fit. Hilti and the Concrete Sensors team share a customer-first approach, which is essential. We are impressed by Concrete Sensors’ commitment to innovation and look forward to its continued growth under Hilti.”

Concrete Sensors was founded in 2015 to tackle concrete monitoring, with the company offering contractors and engineers a solution to help accurately measure and predict the performance of concrete. With use of their mobile app, users have access to the status of the concrete’s estimated strength, temperature and relative humidity.

This is made possible by a wireless sensor embedded into the concrete, which works with the software to provide real-time data on the concrete as it cures and dries. Additionally, with an in-house lab, the exact concrete mix can be more accurately tested to better predict outcomes, therefore potentially saving days or even weeks on the project.

“We are excited and proud to join the Hilti family,” says Brendan Dowdall, founder and CEO of Concrete Sensors. “Hilti gives us limitless potential for growth given its high-quality products, exceptional service, brand power, and industry reputation. This integration will only enhance our capability in the customer engagement space and offers significant value to our ever-growing customer base.”

The entire Concrete Sensors team will join Hilti and will remain in office in Boston. Pricing, product and support procedures will remain unchanged for the foreseeable future.