Transcat

In 1964, a company named Transmation, Inc. was founded in Rochester, New York, with a straightforward mission: to provide reliable test and measurement tools. While the specific names of the founders are not widely detailed, their vision was clear—to serve industries where precision is paramount. Initially a manufacturer, the company evolved, becoming a distributor of test equipment and publishing its first "Transcatalog" in 1982, a name that would soon define its future identity. The company's trajectory shifted significantly in 1989 when it opened its first calibration lab in Rochester, NY. This move marked a pivot from simply selling tools to providing high-value services that ensure those tools function with exacting accuracy. This service-oriented model became a cornerstone of its growth. The company went public in 1999 under the name Transcat, Inc. (NASDAQ: TRNS), securing capital to fuel its expansion across North America. A key part of Transcat's playbook has been growth through strategic acquisition. Over the years, the company has systematically acquired smaller calibration service providers, expanding its geographic footprint and technical capabilities. This strategy allows Transcat to enter new markets and deepen its expertise in highly regulated sectors like life sciences, aerospace, and energy. Recent major acquisitions, including Martin Calibration in late 2024 and Essco Calibration Laboratory in August 2025, represent the largest deals in the company's history, significantly increasing its market presence.