Nordson Adhesive Dispensing Systems history

1954: Walter's sons, Eric and Evan, form the Nordson Division to produce and market airless spray equipment.

The subsidiary grew quickly during the early years of the decade, establishing European marketing branches and absorbing parent United States Automatic in 1966.

Nordson established a foothold in the burgeoning Japanese manufacturing market with the founding of Nordson K.K. in 1969 to distribute American-made machinery.

In 1978, the company began manufacturing industrial robots.

In 1982, James E. Taylor advanced to the presidency and chief executive office, while Eric Nord retired from day-to-day operations, retaining his seat at the head of the board of directors.

By 1984, the company had over $30 million in cash and had reportedly been plied with several takeover and/or merger proposals.

In 1987, the company introduced a new adhesive process that impregnated a standard adhesive with an inert gas to make a sealant that foamed as it was applied.

Nordson's corporate tagline encouraged prospective clients to "Expect More." In 1994, company spokespersons indicated that they would expect more from themselves as well, predicting that earnings would more than double by the turn of the 21st century to over $1 billion.

Under the leadership of Campbell--named president and CEO in 1997--Nordson grew during this time period through a series of strategic acquisitions.

1998: The firm acquires competitor J&M Laboratories Inc.