Graco Inc. Market Research Report

Background

Company Overview

Graco Inc., founded in 1926 by Russell Gray, is a leading American manufacturer specializing in fluid-handling systems and equipment. Headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Graco designs, manufactures, and markets systems and equipment used to move, measure, control, dispense, and spray fluid and powder materials worldwide. The company serves a diverse range of industries, including manufacturing, processing, construction, and maintenance. In 2024, Graco reported net sales exceeding $2.1 billion.

Mission and Vision

Graco's mission is to generate sustained profitable growth that benefits customers, employees, shareholders, and communities. The company aims to be the world's leading supplier of fluid management products and packages in the markets where it participates. To achieve this mission, Graco focuses on investing in new products, targeting new markets, expanding globally, and pursuing strategic acquisitions.

Key Strategic Focus

Core Objectives

Graco's strategic objectives include:

• Investing in New Products: Continuously developing innovative solutions to meet evolving customer needs.

• Targeting New Markets: Expanding the company's reach into emerging and underserved markets.

• Expanding Globally: Enhancing Graco's global presence through strategic initiatives and partnerships.

• Making Acquisitions: Strengthening capabilities and market position through strategic acquisitions.

Areas of Specialization

Graco specializes in fluid and powder handling equipment, including:

• Spray Equipment: Airless paint sprayers, texture sprayers, and line striping equipment.

• Dispensing Equipment: Solutions for precise application of fluids in various industries.

• Lubrication Systems: Automatic lubrication equipment for machinery and vehicles.

• Process Control Systems: Equipment for monitoring and managing industrial processes.

Key Technologies Utilized

Graco employs advanced technologies such as:

• Electrostatic Finishing: Enhancing coating efficiency and quality.

• Proportioning Systems: Ensuring accurate mixing and application of materials.

• Process Control Systems: Monitoring and managing industrial processes for optimal performance.

Primary Markets Targeted

Graco serves various markets, including:

• Industrial Manufacturing: Providing equipment for fluid handling in manufacturing processes.

• Construction: Supplying equipment for painting, coating, and lubrication in construction projects.

• Automotive: Offering solutions for vehicle painting and lubrication.

• Environmental: Providing equipment for environmental monitoring and remediation.

Financials and Funding

Funding History

Graco is a publicly traded company listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol "GGG." The company has a history of strategic acquisitions to enhance its product offerings and market presence. Notable acquisitions include:

• 2011: Acquired Graco - Finishing Equipment Business for $650 million.

• 2014: Sold Graco - Finishing Equipment Business to Carlisle Companies for $590 million.

• 2015: Acquired Gema, a powder-coating company based in Switzerland.

• 2016: Acquired White Knight, a high-purity fluid handling equipment manufacturer.

• 2017: Acquired QED Environmental Systems, a manufacturer of fluid management solutions for environmental monitoring and remediation.

Recent Financial Performance

As of July 30, 2025, Graco's stock performance is as follows:

Stock market information for Graco Inc. (GGG)

• Graco Inc. is a equity in the USA market.

• The price is 83.43 USD currently with a change of -1.17 USD (-0.01%) from the previous close.

• The latest open price was 84.57 USD and the intraday volume is 631448.

• The intraday high is 85.8 USD and the intraday low is 82.2 USD.

• The latest trade time is Wednesday, July 30, 23:15:00 UTC.

Ownership Structure

Graco's ownership is characterized by:

• Institutional Investors: Approximately 91.51% of shares are held by institutional investors.

• Mutual Funds: Around 33.82% of shares are held by mutual funds.

• Insiders: Insiders hold about 0.95% of shares.

Utilization of Capital

Graco utilizes its capital for:

• Product Development: Investing in new product innovations.

• Market Expansion: Entering new markets and expanding global presence.

• Acquisitions: Enhancing capabilities and market position through strategic acquisitions.

Pipeline Development

Graco's pipeline development focuses on:

• New Product Innovations: Developing advanced fluid handling and coating systems.

• Technological Advancements: Incorporating state-of-the-art electronics and process control systems.

• Market Expansion: Introducing products tailored to emerging markets and industries.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Proprietary Technologies

Graco's proprietary technologies include:

• Electrostatic Finishing Systems: Enhancing coating efficiency and quality.

• Proportioning Systems: Ensuring accurate mixing and application of materials.

• Process Control Systems: Monitoring and managing industrial processes for optimal performance.

Significant Scientific Methods

Graco employs scientific methods such as:

• Advanced Fluid Dynamics: Optimizing fluid flow and application.

• Electrostatic Principles: Improving coating adhesion and uniformity.

• Process Control Algorithms: Enhancing system efficiency and reliability.

AI-Driven Capabilities

Graco integrates AI-driven capabilities in:

• Predictive Maintenance: Anticipating equipment needs to minimize downtime.

• Process Optimization: Improving system performance through data analysis.

Leadership Team

Graco's leadership team comprises:

• Mark W. Sheahan: President and CEO, leading the company's strategic direction.

• David M. Lowe: CFO and Treasurer, overseeing financial operations.

• Dale D. Johnson: Chief Commercial Development Officer, driving commercial strategies.

• Caroline M. Chambers: President of EMEA, managing operations in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.

• Angela F. Wordell: Executive Vice President of Operations, overseeing global operations.

• Christopher D. Knutson: Executive VP, Corporate Controller & Principal Accounting Officer, managing financial reporting.

• Kathryn L. Schoenrock: Executive VP & Chief Information Officer, leading IT strategies.

• Joseph J. Humke: Executive VP, General Counsel & Corporate Secretary, handling legal affairs.

• Inge Grasdal: Executive Vice President of Corporate Development, focusing on strategic growth.

• Laura L. Evanson: Executive Vice President of Marketing, leading marketing initiatives.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The fluid handling and coating equipment market is characterized by:

• Market Size: Valued at approximately $14.1 billion as of September 2024.

• Growth Potential: Driven by industrial expansion and infrastructure development.

• Industry Trends: Emphasis on automation, precision, and environmental sustainability.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors include:

• Parker Hannifin: Specializes in motion and control technologies.

• Nordson EFD: Manufactures precision fluid dispensing systems.

• Burke Porter Group: Provides testing, instrumentation, and assembly systems.

• Saudi Gulf Hydraulics: Engages in hydraulic and pneumatic systems manufacturing.

Competitive Landscape

Graco maintains a strong position through:

• Product Innovation: Continuous development of advanced fluid handling solutions.

• Global Presence: Extensive distribution and service networks worldwide.

• Customer Relationships: Strong partnerships with key industries and clients.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Graco has engaged in strategic collaborations to:

• Enhance Product Offerings: Through acquisitions like Gema and other strategic investments, Graco continues to expand its product portfolio and technological capabilities.