The history of Schneider Electric in New Zealand

About Schneider Electric : As a global specialist in energy management with operations in more than 100 countries, Schneider Electric offers integrated solutions across multiple market segments, including leadership positions in energy and infrastructure, industrial processes, building automation, and data centres/networks, as well as a broad presence in residential applications. Focused on making energy safe, reliable, and efficient, the company's 100,000+ employees achieved sales of more than 15.8 billion euros in 2009, through an active commitment to help individuals and organisations “Make the most of their energy”.

As the world leader in Electrical Distribution and global number 2 in Automation & Control, Schneider Electric develops a full range of products, software, systems and services for four core markets: Energy & Infrastructure, Industry, Buildings, and Residential.

Schneider Electric has been present in New Zealand since the early 70’s when both Merlin Gerin and Telemecanique’s ranges of electrical products first became available through local agents.

Since then Schneider Electric has played a critical role in providing electrical distribution, industrial control and automation solutions for some of New Zealand’s key projects. Today, Schneider Electric employs almost 300 people.

Our lineup, comprising global brands (Merlin Gerin, Square D and Telemecanique), market-leading local brands (PDL) in wiring accessories as well as Clipsal, and recognized specialist brands in secured power, building automation, automation specialties and energy management systems, is unparalleled in terms of breadth, strategic fit and related high value-added services.

Summary of main events in New Zealand:

• 2001 - Schneider Electric acquires PDL Holdings, a New Zealand company that researches, develops, manufactures and supplies a complete range of wiring accessories and variable speed drives.
• 1999 – The name change to Schneider Electric early in 1999 reflected its’ maturity and its’ emphasis on its electrical business.  Schneider Electric has become a leading supplier in New Zealand of LV and MV distribution and industrial control.
• 1995 - Schneider acquires Modicon.
• 1993 – Merlin Gerin and Telemecanique were merged under the one name – Schneider.
• 1990 – Merlin Gerin acquires CPD Electrical
• 1989 – Telemecanique acquires Turnbull and Jones Controls.
• 1980 – Merlin Gerin arrived in New Zealand
• 1978 – Modicon arrived in New Zealand
• 1974 – Telemecanique’s first presence in New Zealand