It all began in 1899, when a small workshop started crafting cycles and gears, and repairing car engines.
The company even ventured briefly into automobile manufacturing under the brand name “de Bazelaire.”
This humble beginning marked the birth of a legacy — the beginning of Hibon’s industrial journey.
Inspired by an invention from Tourcoing native Joseph Baudot, who developed a new vane engine, the company built its first rotary vane system.
This innovation laid the foundation for what would later become the viscous liquid rotary pump, a milestone in fluid technology.
Around 1924, the company moved away from car manufacturing and engine repair — once a source of pride — to focus on pump technology, a decision driven by the founder’s son.
This marked the beginning of a new era of specialization and industrial ambition.
Over the next two decades, the company developed liquid ring pumps and Roots-type blowers, establishing itself as a key player in the industrial pump sector.
In 1961, a new factory was opened in Roubaix, along with the creation of PHE (Pompes Hibon Entretien), dedicated to maintenance and service.
In 1979, a German firm acquired 90% of the company’s capital, placing operations under a Supervisory Board.
Despite the change in ownership, the company continued to modernize and invest, strengthening its position in the market.
In 1986, the company regained its independence and soared once again. With 200 employees, it became a market leader in France, exporting 40% of its production.
Expansion continued in 1987 with the establishment of a Canadian subsidiary - Hibon Canada-.
In 1988, a strategic partnership was formed with the British group E.I.S. PLC, later acquired by TI GROUP PLC in 1998.
In 2001, the company joined a global group specializing in vacuum and pressure technologies, becoming one of the “3 H’s” in its division — alongside Hick Hargreaves (HH) and Wilhem Klein (WKE).
This integration brought new opportunities and global visibility.
In October 2006, following the restructuring of its parent group, the Low Pressure business unit was acquired by Ingersoll Rand.
Today, the company is part of this American multinational, a global leader in flow creation and industrial solutions.
Formed in 2020 through the merger of Gardner Denver and the industrial segment of a former group, Ingersoll Rand delivers mission-critical technologies in air, fluid, energy, and medical applications — driving productivity and efficiency across industries worldwide.
