And Emerson says it hopes that acquiring Pentair will help it reach its goal of increasing its global presence in control, isolation, pressure relief valves and actuation as part of a larger strategy to build a broader automation portfolio.

“This acquisition delivers on our strategic plan of investing in automation solutions and in markets where we have a global leadership position and see significant long-term growth opportunities,” says David Farr, chairman and CEO of Emerson. “By adding Pentair’s valves and controls leading technologies and services to our already broad portfolio, we have positioned our businesses to grow while continuing to provide our customers around the world with more complete solutions to their toughest challenges.”

Headquartered in Schaffhausen, Switzerland, the Pentair valves and controls business employs approximately 7,500 people around the world.

“The Pentair valves and controls business is a strong fit for us as they share many of the same management principles that have defined success for Emerson over the years such as global customer support, service, best cost sourcing and manufacturing,” says Mike Train, executive vice president and business leader for Emerson Automation Solutions. “In addition to adding great people and brands to our business, it will allow us to expand our market position and create new opportunities for growth, while also being able to offer our customers the most complete valve solutions portfolio and most extensive service network in the world.”

The acquisition is expected to close in the next four to six months, subject to various regulatory approvals.