Ecolab has acquired CoolIT for approximately $4.75 billion, marking a significant expansion in its water technology and service capabilities, particularly in the rapidly growing AI infrastructure sector. CoolIT’s sales have surged over 100% this year, fueled by increasing demand for liquid cooling solutions in AI data centers. This acquisition positions Ecolab to leverage its expertise in water technologies to support the essential cooling needs of AI computing, as water plays a critical role in chip production, power generation, and cooling systems.
With this strategic move, Ecolab aims to provide comprehensive solutions throughout the AI value chain. This includes delivering ultra-pure water necessary for advanced chip manufacturing, efficient water systems for energy generation, and direct liquid cooling technologies essential for high-performance AI data centers. By doing so, Ecolab can help clients scale their AI operations more efficiently while safeguarding environmental and community resources.
At the upcoming Supercomputing event in November 2026, Ecolab plans to unveil an innovative 3D TRASAR™ cooling platform that integrates CoolIT’s technologies with advanced digital optimization tools. This platform will enhance real-time monitoring of cooling systems, thereby optimizing water and power usage and striving for a near-zero water footprint in data centers. The technology is compatible with leading AI architectures, such as NVIDIA’s Vera Rubin and Grace Blackwell, aiming to improve operational uptime and reduce environmental impacts.
Ecolab’s partnership with NVIDIA has been fruitful, with collaborative efforts on various liquid-cooling projects, showcasing their commitment to innovation and technical excellence. Both companies are focused on advancing AI infrastructure while minimizing ecological footprints and maximizing performance.
Ecolab’s Global High-Tech business has seen remarkable growth, projected to reach $1.5 billion in annual sales by 2026, up from approximately $150 million in 2021, following the acquisitions of Ovivo and CoolIT. The company aims to further increase its Global High-Tech sales to $4 billion by 2030, targeting a 25% operating income margin. This segment is now Ecolab’s primary growth driver, contributing significantly to overall sales growth.
Christophe Beck, Ecolab’s CEO, emphasized the company’s commitment to sustainable growth, asserting that Ecolab is well-positioned to meet its growth targets while respecting communities and natural resources. The company anticipates organic revenue growth of 5% to 7%, an operating income margin exceeding 20%, and consistent earnings per share (EPS) growth of 12% to 15% in the coming years.
In terms of financial guidance, Ecolab has updated its 2026 EPS expectations to reflect the acquisition of CoolIT, projecting adjusted diluted EPS between $8.03 and $8.23, indicating a 7% to 9% growth compared to 2025. For the latter half of 2026, organic sales growth is expected to accelerate to 6% to 7%, with underlying EPS growth projected at 14% to 15% for the base business. However, the acquisition may introduce short-term impacts from non-cash amortization and financing costs, affecting EPS by about $0.20 per share in the third and fourth quarters.
Looking beyond 2026, Ecolab forecasts continued organic sales growth and annual adjusted operating income margin expansion of 100 to 150 basis points, aiming for a sustainable EPS growth rate of 12% to 15% as contributions from CoolIT increase. This strategic acquisition is set to enhance Ecolab’s capabilities in the high-tech and life sciences sectors, aligning with major industry trends and solidifying its market leadership.
Source: Ecolab
