Hilti acquires concrete tech startup

Hilti, a global supplier of tools, technology, software, and services to the commercial construction industry, has acquired the assets of Concrete Sensors, a provider of connected devices, software, and services that help enable improved decision making and accelerated construction schedules through a better understanding of the concrete curing process, according to reports.

US-based 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 required the use of cumbersome laboratory equipment and involved considerable time delays. However, in recent years, new technology has emerged to help optimise this process.

Concrete sensors was founded in 2015 to tackle this problem, with the Boston-based company offering contractors and engineers a solution to help accurately measure and predict the performance of concrete. A wireless sensor embedded into concrete works with the software to provide real-time data on the concrete as it cures and dries.

The Concrete Sensors mobile app shares the status of the concrete’s estimated strength, temperature, and relative humidity. 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.

The acquisition builds on other recent Hilti investment to digitise 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,” said Martina McIsaac, president & 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.”

“We are excited and proud to join the Hilti family,” Dowdall said. “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.