3M Inks Second-Biggest Deal in $2B Scott Safety Purchase

Agreeing to buy Scott Safety from Johnson Controls International Plc in a $2 billion deal, forges another large purchase to bolster one of 3M Co.'s central businesses.

The acquisition will add respiratory-protection products, thermal-imaging devices and other products for firefighters and industrial workers to 3M’s safety division, the company said March 16 in a statement. The move comes less than two years after 3M bought a safety business from KKR & Co. for $2.5 billion.

“This is a logical acquisition for 3M and the inclusion of Scott Safety’s fire and safety products should complement its safety and graphics portfolio,” Nicholas ...