IFM electronic gmbh (ifm) is a German pioneer and global market leader in industrial automation, specifically in sensors and automation solutions. Founded in 1969 and headquartered in Essen, Germany, ifm started as a family-run enterprise and has grown into an international "hidden champion". The company's vision has always been to develop reliable sensors and provide unparalleled customer service, with "quality" being a principle that extends far beyond its products.
Core Expertise & Technological Focus
ifm's core expertise lies in manufacturing electronic sensors, including proximity, photoelectric, and pressure sensors, as well as vision systems and encoders. As an Industry 4.0 pioneer, ifm goes beyond components by focusing on data. It utilizes IO-Link technology to unlock the full potential of its sensors, creating a foundational data flow for predictive maintenance, fault diagnosis, and energy management solutions. The company is renowned for its high-quality standards, offering a 5-year warranty on all its catalog products.
Global Reach & Local Service
ifm has a significant worldwide presence, operating in over 95 countries with more than 9,050 employees globally. A large portion of its product development and manufacturing (70%) takes place in Germany, ensuring "German-made" quality. ifm China was established in 2005 in Shanghai and now has a team of over 170 sales, technical, and service personnel across the country to provide localized support and help customers achieve intelligent manufacturing and digital transformation.
