New Joint Venture Unites Safety and Fire & Rescue Brands to Support First Responders and Workers in High-Risk Environments

Valparaiso, IN March 18, 2026 — A new joint venture is being formed to bring together several highly respected brands serving firefighters, first responders, and workers operating in hazardous environments around the world, combining decades of innovation, engineering expertise, and a shared commitment to protecting lives.

The joint venture will include the Scott SCBA franchise, which is being contributed by 3M, alongside the Madison Fire & Rescue portfolio including Holmatro, Task Force Tips, Amkus, Waterax and Firefighting Systems (FFS).  Together this creates a focused platform dedicated to supporting the people who protect communities and work in some of the most demanding conditions.

Across these businesses are generations of engineering innovation and trusted equipment used daily by fire departments, industrial safety teams, and public safety professionals across the globe. By bringing these capabilities together under a single partnership, the new company will be positioned to continue advancing the technologies and products that help protect those who protect others.

The joint venture will operate with a philosophy rooted in entrepreneurial leadership and decentralized innovation, enabling each brand to remain close to its customers while accelerating the development of world-class safety and rescue solutions.

“Our mission is to support the people who operate in the most challenging and high-risk environments,” said Kristofer Howard, CEO of the newly formed JV. “From firefighters and emergency responders to workers in industrial settings such as mining, energy, and heavy industry, these professionals depend on equipment they can trust with their lives. This partnership brings together brands that share a deep commitment to that responsibility.”

The new organization will maintain the heritage, expertise, and leadership teams that have built these brands into trusted names across the safety and fire service industries. Customers can expect the same high level of product quality, service, and innovation they have relied on for decades.

Additional details about the joint venture, including its leadership structure and long-term strategic initiatives, will be shared following the completion of the transaction.

Until then, the companies will continue to operate independently and remain fully focused on serving their customers and supporting the critical missions they support every day.