We are a local, employee-owned, high tech automation distributor and solutions provider. We educate and support local manufacturers in implementing emerging technologies to reduce costs, increase productivity and improve safety. Our offerings range from industrial computers and software, Robotics, Machine Vision, and Motion Control. Our goal is to increase productivity to keep manufacturing in America successful and prosperous.
Our Story
July 1969
Applied Controls is started by Bill Parker in King of Prussia, PA as a mid-Atlantic Rep firm selling and supporting basic machine control products
October 1970
Applied Controls is Incorporated in the State of Pennsylvania
January 1980
Applied Controls expands product portfolio to include automation, drives, motion, and controls
July 1990
Applied Controls is purchased by Rick and Jim Gehring
January 1993
Applied Controls expands its product base and moves into the Machine Vision business
January 1995
Applied Controls builds and relocates into its new corporate headquarters in Malvern, PA
January 2001
Applied Controls continues expansion with offices in New Jersey, Maryland, and Virginia
May 2005
Applied Controls opens its first technology center in York, PA
January 2013
Rick and Jim Gehring sell Applied Controls to the employees through an Employee Stock Ownership Trust Agreement
January 2014
Applied expands into design, build, and installation of Robots
July 2019
Applied Controls turns 50 years old
October 2019
Applied Controls celebrates 25 years of our annual customer event TechToberFest