I-care strengthens its global leadership with the acquisition of SDT International

Brussels, March 26, 2025

I-care is proud to announce a major step forward in its strategic development with the acquisition of SDT International, a long-standing Belgian company and pioneer in the field of ultrasound predictive maintenance. This merger, dubbed “Harmonizing Waves”, brings together two complementary areas of expertise to serve a common ambition: to redefine global standards in predictive maintenance.

This acquisition reinforces Belgium’s position as the epicenter of innovation in predictive maintenance. SDT International, founded in 1975, brings to the I-care group its expertise in ultrasound technology, its worldwide distribution network and its philosophy based on the values of respect, flexibility and simplicity. The company will retain its historic headquarters in Forest and its operational autonomy, while benefiting from synergies with the I-care group.

A strategic alliance for customers and technologies

This merger marks a significant turning point for I-care customers. From now on, a single platform, I-see, will integrate complementary vibration and ultrasound predictive maintenance technologies. This centralized solution will considerably simplify the customer experience, offering a single tool for detecting anomalies, optimizing equipment performance, managing energy efficiency and controlling lubrication.

Technologically speaking, vibration and ultrasound – two key disciplines in predictive maintenance – are now combined on the same platform. This combination will provide even finer and more precise analysis of industrial assets, setting a new benchmark in equipment performance management.

The acquisition was entirely equity-financed, illustrating I-care’s financial strength and commitment to investing in strategic initiatives to reinforce its role as a global leader in the field.

“This strategic union marks an important milestone for I-care, reinforcing our global leadership role and illustrating our commitment to technological excellence and customer service.” Fabrice Brion, CEO of I-care.

“Joining the I-care group this year, which marks SDT International’s 50th anniversary, is a symbolic way of honoring the work of my grandfather and father, who built this company with passion and determination,” says Benoît Degraeve, CEO of SDT International.

This decision goes beyond a simple strategic choice: it further positions Belgium as the center of maintenance expertise for the two world-renowned companies. It’s a commitment of which both CEOs are deeply proud.

“I’m convinced that by pooling the intelligence and skills of our teams, we’ll be able to accelerate the development of even more innovative solutions. In an ever-changing world, this shared commitment will enable us to help manufacturers improve their performance while meeting current and future environmental challenges”, emphasizes Benoît Degraeve, CEO of SDT International.

Renewed governance while respecting history

This merger is accompanied by structural changes in governance, while respecting the heritage, values and continuity of SDT International. André Degraeve, an emblematic figure in the company, is taking a well-deserved retirement, while retaining an office in Forest and an observer role on the SDT International Board of Directors. Benoit Degraeve remains CEO of SDT International, and his sister Pauline Degraeve is a director and CHRO. Allan Rienstra also retains his directorship of the company. Fabrice Brion, co-founder and CEO of I-care, becomes Chairman of the Board of SDT International.

The partnership is based on a shared vision and the pooling of resources, particularly in R&D, production and administration. This collaboration will enable the I-care group to accelerate innovation, strengthen production capacities and offer solutions that are even better adapted to customer needs.

Press contacts:

Catherine Haquenne – ch@gosselindewalque.com – +32 495 33 59 94

Chiara Girardi – chiara.girardi@sdtultrasound.com – +32 491 25 01 74

About I-care:

The I-care group is the market leader in predictive maintenance, monitoring hundreds of thousands of industrial machines worldwide. Our mission is to change the way the world works. Our AI and data-driven solutions predict industrial failures months or even years before they occur. Thanks to I-care, machines around the world are safer, more productive and more sustainable. Founded in 2004 in Mons, Belgium, I-care employs over 850 people, has 36 offices in 16 countries (Asia-Pacific, EMEA and the USA) and has customers in over 55 countries. I-care was named EY Company of the Year 2020 in Belgium.

About SDT International:

Founded in 1975 and headquartered in Forest, Belgium, SDT International is a world leader in the development, manufacture and marketing of ultrasonic measurement devices dedicated to energy savings and condition monitoring solutions, offering cutting-edge technologies to meet the varied needs of industry.