A history of commitment and innovation in the service of measurement professionals!
Founded in Paris in 1893 by Raphaël Chauvin and René Arnoux, Chauvin Arnoux has played a major role in the history of measurement. This is evidenced by its long and prestigious list of inventions, such as the universal tester—the precursor to the multimeter—and the clamp meter.
Among its most significant contributions:
- The universal tester, the precursor to the modern multimeter
- The current clamp, which revolutionized non-contact current measurement
- More than 350 patents and registered trademarks in the 20th century
Histoire - Paris fin 1800
Early Developments
As early as the mid-20th century, the Chauvin Arnoux Group embarked on a decisive phase of transformation, marked by its expansion into international markets, the development of its industrial capabilities in France, and the broadening of its expertise into services. These early, transformative developments laid the foundation for an innovative group capable of providing long-term support to professionals in their needs for measurement instrumentation, metrology, and maintenance.
1936
First International Outpost in Poland
In 1936, the Chauvin Arnoux Group took a major strategic step in its development by establishing its very first overseas subsidiary in Poland. This move marked the beginning of its international expansion and already demonstrated its commitment to sharing its expertise in measurement instrumentation beyond France’s borders.
Unfortunately, this subsidiary was destroyed during the bombings of World War II, bringing an end to this first industrial venture in Eastern Europe. Although it no longer exists today, this pioneering initiative illustrates the spirit of innovation and international openness that has characterized the Chauvin Arnoux Group since its inception.
1965
Opening of the First Plant in Normandy
In 1965, the Chauvin Arnoux Group continued its industrial expansion with the opening of its first plant in Normandy, located in Conches-en-Ouche, France. This production site marked an important milestone in the company’s industrial development, strengthening its ability to design and manufacture high-precision measuring instruments in France.
This establishment in the Normandy region was part of a strategy focused on growth and mastery of manufacturing processes, helping to cement the Group’s reputation in the fields of electronics and measurement. Although the factory is now closed, it remains a powerful symbol of the Chauvin Arnoux Group’s historic industrial roots in France.
1969
Founding of Manumesure, an expert in metrology
In 1969, the Chauvin Arnoux Group expanded its service offerings with the founding of Manumesure, a company specializing in metrology services and the maintenance of measuring instruments. This initiative marked a significant strategic shift, enabling the group to support its customers throughout the entire lifecycle of their equipment.
Through Manumesure, Chauvin Arnoux strengthened its position as a global player in measurement by offering high-value-added services such as calibration, verification, and maintenance of instruments. This expertise helps ensure the reliability, accuracy, and compliance of instruments used in demanding industrial environments.
Industrial Growth and International Expansion
During the 1970s, the Chauvin Arnoux Group experienced a particularly significant period of industrial growth and international expansion. Between expanding its production capacity in Normandy and opening new subsidiaries abroad, the group gradually restructured its operations to meet growing demand. This pivotal period illustrates its commitment to controlling its entire value chain while establishing a strong presence in international measurement instrumentation markets.
1973
Expanding Electronics Production Capacity
In 1973, the Chauvin Arnoux Group continued its industrial expansion with the opening of a second plant in Normandy, located in Villedieu-les-Poêles. This site was specifically dedicated to electronics manufacturing, a rapidly growing sector at the time.
This new facility enabled the group to increase its production capacity and respond more effectively to the growing demand for electronic measurement equipment. It also marked an important step in the specialization of its industrial sites, helping to improve the quality and performance of its products.
1975
Strategic Expansion into Italy
In 1975, the Chauvin Arnoux Group took another step forward in its international expansion with the establishment of its Italian subsidiary in Lissone, on the outskirts of Milan. This strategic location in the heart of a dynamic industrial region allowed the group to get closer to its European customers and strengthen its presence in the Italian market.
This subsidiary plays a key role in distributing the Group’s measurement solutions throughout Southern Europe, while consolidating its position as an international player in the field of instrumentation and testing.
1977
Industrial Diversification and Expansion into the United States
The year 1977 marked a major turning point for the Chauvin Arnoux Group, with both a strengthening of its industrial capabilities and a new step forward internationally. The group opened a third plant in Vire, Normandy, dedicated to plastic injection molding for the housings of its products.
This facility enabled the group to gain greater control over the design and manufacture of its equipment by integrating a key capability in the production of essential components.
At the same time, Chauvin Arnoux continued its international expansion by establishing a subsidiary in the United States. This presence in the North American market represented a major strategic step, opening up new growth opportunities and strengthening the group’s global footprint.
Industrial and European Restructuring
In the late 1970s and early 1990s, the Chauvin Arnoux Group reached a new milestone in its development by strengthening its industrial structure and consolidating its presence in Europe. Through the optimization of its logistics capabilities, the integration of new European subsidiaries, and the affirmation of its identity via a modernized headquarters, the group laid the foundations for a solid and sustainable organization dedicated to measurement and industrial performance.
1979
A Strategic Location at the Heart of Logistics and Production
In 1979, the Chauvin Arnoux Group continued to expand its industrial infrastructure with the opening of a fourth plant in Normandy, in Pont-l’Évêque. Today, this site plays a central role in the group’s operations, combining several key functions: logistics, the manufacture of measuring instruments, and central inventory management.
This strategic location optimizes production and distribution flows while enhancing the Group’s ability to respond quickly to its customers’ needs. It also illustrates Chauvin Arnoux’s commitment to effectively structuring its industrial activities around high-performing and complementary hubs.
1987
Strengthening the Group’s Presence in Europe
In 1987, the Chauvin Arnoux Group consolidated its foothold in Europe by integrating its Spanish and British subsidiaries. This development marked an important milestone in the structuring of its international network, strengthening its proximity to local markets.
Through these acquisitions, the group expanded its ability to address regional needs while sharing its expertise in measurement instrumentation across Europe. This strategy helped solidify its position as a major player in the sector by combining technical know-how with a strong on-the-ground presence.
1992
A New Headquarters to Support Growth
In 1992, the Chauvin Arnoux Group inaugurated its new headquarters located at 190 rue Championnet in Paris. This move marked a key milestone in the group’s evolution, providing the company with a modern space tailored to its growth ambitions.
This new headquarters reflected the organization’s gradual restructuring and strengthened cohesion among the group’s various entities. It became a true center for decision-making and coordination, supporting Chauvin Arnoux’s industrial, commercial, and technological activities in France and internationally.
Expertise and Recognition
In the early 1990s, the Chauvin Arnoux Group firmly established its expertise and credibility in the field of measurement instrumentation. Between celebrating its heritage, making cutting-edge technological investments, and expanding its technical capabilities, this period marked a growing recognition of its expertise, both scientifically and industrially.
1993
A Century of Innovation and Scientific Commitment
In 1993, the Chauvin Arnoux Group celebrated its centennial, marking 100 years of innovation, industrial development, and expertise in the field of electrical and electronic measurement. This symbolic anniversary underscores the group’s ability to evolve with the times while remaining true to its founding values.
As part of this effort, Chauvin Arnoux is also strengthening its commitment to the scientific community by sponsoring the Grand Prix de la Mesure, awarded by the French Academy of Sciences. This initiative illustrates the company’s dedication to promoting research and scientific excellence, while solidifying its reputation among key players in the industry.
1995
Investment in Cutting-Edge EMC Technology
In 1995, the Chauvin Arnoux Group achieved a major technological milestone by becoming the first French manufacturer to install an anechoic chamber, also known as a soundproof chamber. This high-precision equipment is dedicated to electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) testing, a critical factor in ensuring the reliability and compliance of electronic devices.
Thanks to this strategic investment, the group strengthened its testing and validation capabilities while anticipating the market’s growing regulatory requirements. This advancement positioned Chauvin Arnoux as an innovative leader at the forefront of measurement and control technologies.
1996
Strengthening Expertise in Metrology and the Environment
In 1996, the subsidiary Manumesure continued its growth by acquiring Normandie Mesures. This strategic move expanded the Group’s capabilities in key areas such as air pollution control and dimensional metrology.
This integration complements the Chauvin Arnoux Group’s service offering by bringing recognized expertise and addressing the growing challenges related to air quality and the accuracy of industrial measurements. It demonstrates the group’s commitment to diversifying its areas of expertise and offering increasingly comprehensive solutions to its customers.
Growth Through Acquisitions
In the late 1990s, the Chauvin Arnoux Group accelerated its growth through an ambitious external growth strategy. Through a series of targeted acquisitions, the group strengthened its positions in key markets, expanded its portfolio of capabilities, and solidified its international presence. This momentum enabled it to consolidate its expertise in measurement instrumentation while integrating new technological and industrial know-how.
1997
Strengthening Market Positions in the Measurement Sector
In 1997, the Chauvin Arnoux Group took a major strategic step with the acquisition of Metrix, then the second-largest player in the portable measurement instruments market. This acquisition enabled the group to significantly strengthen its position in this key segment by expanding its product offering and consolidating its presence among professionals.
That same year, Chauvin Arnoux also acquired Pyrocontrole from the U.S.-based Engelhard Group. Specializing in thermal measurement and control, this company brought essential complementary expertise, enabling the group to expand its areas of operation and offer increasingly comprehensive solutions to its industrial customers.
1998
Diversification and Consolidation of Expertise
In 1998, the Chauvin Arnoux Group continued its external growth strategy with the acquisition of Enerdis, now known as Chauvin Arnoux Energy. This integration strengthened the group’s capabilities in the field of energy management and efficiency, a major challenge for industries and infrastructure.
At the same time, the group acquired the Measurement division of Oritel, thereby consolidating its expertise in test and measurement technologies. These strategic moves enabled Chauvin Arnoux to diversify its product portfolio and position itself as a global player capable of meeting a wide range of increasingly complex needs.
2000
Strategic Expansion into China
In 2000, the Chauvin Arnoux Group took another step forward in its international expansion with the creation of its Chinese subsidiary, following the acquisition of Puji Wung. This expansion into China marked a major milestone in the group’s global strategy, enabling it to enter a rapidly growing market and strengthen its presence in Asia.
This move is part of a long-term development strategy aimed at bringing the Group closer to its international customers while optimizing its manufacturing capabilities. It demonstrates Chauvin Arnoux’s commitment to establishing itself as a leading global player in the field of measurement instrumentation.
International Expansion and Excellence
In the early 2000s, the Chauvin Arnoux Group continued its international expansion while reinforcing its commitment to technological excellence. Through the opening of new subsidiaries, industrial development in France, and recognition of its innovations, the group solidified its position as a leading global player in the field of measurement and electronic instrumentation.
2002
Strategic International Expansion
In 2002, the Chauvin Arnoux Group accelerated its international expansion with the creation of new subsidiaries in the Middle East and Sweden. These strategic locations enabled the group to strengthen its presence in high-potential markets and build closer relationships with its local customers.
This expansion reflects Chauvin Arnoux’s commitment to keeping pace with evolving industrial needs on a global scale, while strengthening its sales and technical network. It also helps increase the group’s visibility on the international measurement instrumentation scene.
2008
Industrial Expansion in Temperature Sensors
In 2008, the Chauvin Arnoux Group continued its industrial expansion with the opening of a production facility in Meyzieu, near Lyon. This facility is dedicated to the manufacture of temperature sensors, a key area for numerous industrial and energy applications.
This facility enables the group to strengthen its expertise in thermal measurement and optimize its production capacity in France. It also demonstrates Chauvin Arnoux’s commitment to developing reliable, high-performance solutions tailored to the demands of the most challenging industrial environments.
2013
Recognition of Innovation and Industrial Heritage
In 2013, the Chauvin Arnoux Group celebrated its 120th anniversary, marking more than a century of innovation, expertise, and development in the field of measurement. This anniversary underscores the Group’s strength and its ability to adapt to technological changes.
That same year, several of its innovations were honored at the prestigious Électrons d’Or Awards. The PEL data loggers won the Électron d’Or Award, while the Digiflex sensors received the Électron de Bronze Award, presented by the trade magazines Electroniques and L’Embarqué.
These awards highlight the group’s technological excellence and its ongoing commitment to research and development. They also demonstrate its ability to offer innovative solutions recognized by experts in the electronics sector.
Innovation and Modernization
Since the late 2010s, the Chauvin Arnoux Group has been fully committed to a drive for innovation and modernization. Through acquisitions of cutting-edge technologies, organizational evolution, and a celebration of its heritage, the group has demonstrated its ability to anticipate industrial transformations and integrate increasingly advanced solutions in the field of measurement.
2017
Acceleration in Cutting-Edge Technologies
In 2017, the Chauvin Arnoux Group strengthened its technological position with the acquisition of the startup Indatech, which specializes in optical spectroscopy. This strategic acquisition enables the group to integrate advanced expertise in materials analysis and open up new opportunities in the field of industrial inspection.
Drawing on Indatech’s expertise, Chauvin Arnoux is expanding its product portfolio to include innovative, high-value-added solutions, while strengthening its ability to meet precision and performance challenges in demanding environments.
2020
New Momentum and Strengthened Expertise
In 2020, the Chauvin Arnoux Group reached a major milestone in its modernization with the relocation of its headquarters to Asnières-sur-Seine, in the Île-de-France region. This new site supports the evolution of the group’s organizational structure and fosters synergies among its various business units.
That same year, Chauvin Arnoux acquired Spectralys, a company specializing in innovative spectroscopic analysis applied to industrial quality control. This acquisition strengthens the Group’s capabilities in advanced analytical technologies, in line with its strategy of innovation and diversification.
2023
130 Years of Innovation and Expertise
In 2023, the Chauvin Arnoux Group celebrates its 130th anniversary, marking more than a century of expertise, innovation, and industrial development in the field of measurement. This milestone anniversary is a testament to the Group’s strength and its ability to continually adapt to technological changes and industrial challenges.
Building on this legacy, Chauvin Arnoux continues to look toward the future by developing ever more advanced solutions and consolidating its position as a leading global player.
Heritage and Sustainability
As part of its ongoing development, the Chauvin Arnoux Group celebrates its heritage while reaffirming the enduring value of its expertise. Building on decades of innovation and industrial know-how, the group highlights the longevity of its historic entities, which are the true pillars of its success and its ability to provide long-term support to its customers in the field of measurement and metrology.
2025
Historical Expertise Remains at the Heart of the Group
In 2025, the Chauvin Arnoux Group will celebrate two landmark anniversaries that highlight the strength and longevity of its operations. Manumesure is celebrating its 60th anniversary, reaffirming its key role in metrology services and the maintenance of measuring instruments.
For its part, Pyrocontrole is celebrating its 80th anniversary, a testament to its recognized expertise in the field of thermal measurement and control for demanding industrial environments.
These anniversaries highlight the group’s ability to develop its subsidiaries over the long term while maintaining high technological standards. They also illustrate the strength of a model based on the transfer of expertise, continuous innovation, and a commitment to customers.
An industrial, human, and forward-looking history
From its Parisian roots to its global expansion, Chauvin Arnoux remains true to its core values: designing, manufacturing, and innovating in the field of measurement to serve manufacturers, energy companies, and the technological transition.
More than 130 years later, the Group continues to shape the future with passion and commitment.