It all started with a fire.
With roots dating back to the 1880s, Viking has grown from a small manufacturing company into a global leader in fire protection, driven by a long-standing commitment to innovation and safety.
1880s: The Beginning of Everything
Emil Tyden, a Swedish immigrant, developed a revolutionary railroad car seal in Chicago.
Late 1890s: A New Home in Hastings
Encouraged by local business leaders, Tyden relocated to Hastings, Michigan, where he founded the International Seal and Lock Company to manufacture his patented seals.
1920: A Fire Sparks a New Direction
After a devastating fire destroyed his factory, Tyden turned his attention to fire protection. He acquired The Viking Corporation, and began the manufacture of fire sprinklers and valves.
1920s-1960s: Building a Contractor Network
Viking grew rapidly through partnerships with skilled fire sprinkler contractors across the United States, establishing a strong reputation in the industry.
1970s: Expanding Distribution
As the fire sprinkler market accelerated, Viking developed a network of affiliates to provide contractors with products and services nationwide.
1980s: Focused on Manufacturing Excellence
Viking began offering contracting and design services to focus exclusively on developing, manufacturing, and distributing fire protection products.
1989: Foundation of the EMEA Division
Viking’s expansion into Europe began with Luxembourg as home base. The business stretched its European roots throughout its various nations. Soon, this growth included the Middle East and Africa, and Viking EMEA was born.
Early 1990s: The Launch of Viking SupplyNet
Viking SupplyNet was established as the dedicated distributor of Viking products, while international operations expand the company’s global footprint.
2002: Introducing Fabrication Services
Viking Fabrication Services was launched, offering contractors full-service steel pipe fabrication. By streamlining the entire pipe fabrication and installation process, the industry’s most vertically-integrated solution was complete.
2005: Strengthening Our Fire Protection Offering
With the acquisition of K. C. Anticendi, Viking EMEA expanded its foam and gas suppression portfolio, reinforcing its commitment to complete fire protection solutions.
2007: Expanding Fire Protection Solutions
Viking Plastics joined Viking Group, strengthening the company’s ability to provide integrated package of fire protection solutions worldwide.
2009: A Global Fire Protection Leader
The merger with Minimax created one of the world’s largest fire protection companies, combining expertise in fire detection, control, and suppression technologies.
Today: Protecting What Matters Most
With a global presence and a century of innovation, Viking continues to advance fire protection through industry-leading products, technologies, and services.