X-RITE

Founded in 1958, X-Rite was created by data-driven color scientists, for professionals looking to improve color in their supply chain. As a business that drives innovation through continuous improvement, X-Rite Pantone has been – and will continue to be – a company that takes pride in the quality solutions and services that we’ve built our business upon.
1958
Seven entrepreneurs from Lear Siegler found Foresight Enterprises. Their first invention, X-Ray Marking Tape, inspires a new company name – X‑Rite, Incorporated.

1963
PantonePantone launches the PANTONE MATCHING SYSTEM®, a standardized approach for communicating color choices.

1973

X-Rite introduces silver recovery equipment for radiographic film. The company is now positioned to expand its portfolio within the film and photo industry.

Silver Recovery System
1975

X-Rite introduces the 301, the company’s first black-and-white transmission densitometer. The 301 is the start of X-Rite’s concentration in quality control.

1980s
X-Rite expands to new industries, including graphic arts. The company becomes known for its innovation in portable quality control technology. X-Rite’s 400 series becomes the industry standard for handheld measurement in the pressroom.

1990s
X-Rite marks important advances in quality control technology with the launch of the 968 and MA-58 portable spectrophotometers.

Formulation becomes an area of focus. X-Rite introduces Paint-Master® for automotive applications. The company’s MatchRite® solution responds to the “DIY” movement and rising consumer demand for custom paint colors.

ATS, X-Rite’s first generation pressroom scanning solution, brings new automation to commercial printers.

2000s

MacBethX-Rite becomes the global leader in color through a 2006 merger with its largest competitor, GretagMacbeth, and the 2007 acquisition of Pantone.

Acquisitions combine X-Rite’s strength in portables, Gretag’s expertise in benchtop and imaging, Macbeth’s 100+ years in lighting, the Munsell legacy of color science, and Pantone’s leadership in color inspiration and design.