|
|
| 1981 Solid Power introduced |
|
Continuing to lead EL in financial performance and product innovation, Institutional introduced Solid Power, a patented, state-of-the-art solid-form detergent in a plastic capsule delivering unprecedented control, safety and cost savings. Sales soared, and in the coming years the company leveraged this technology to develop solid products for other applications, such as laundry and floor care. |
| 1984 Pest purchases |
|
EL acquired Lystads Inc., a Grand Forks, N.D., firm specializing in pest elimination services for the institutional sanitation market. Three other strategic pest elimination acquisitions in the next two years helped form the basis of the company's new Pest Elimination Division, which was officially organized in 1987. |
| 1986 A pivotal year |
In December, Economics Laboratory Inc. changed its name to Ecolab Inc., providing a simple and unifying worldwide identification. A bold, new visual identity accompanied the name change. Also that month, Ecolab was listed on the New York Stock Exchange, enhancing the company's standing in the investment community and heightening the interest of global investors.
Ecolab also set the stage for a new Janitorial Division by acquiring the Airkem Professional Products Division of Airwick Industries, a leader in institutional floor maintenance and odor control products, particularly for the healthcare market.
|
| 1987 Textile Care formed |
| In 1987, Ecolab formed its Textile Care Division to provide products, dispensing systems, and services to large commercial laundries. |
|
