The Stokes Vacuum brand was founded in 1895 and played a key role in the development of vacuum technology. Its innovations include the Vacuum Dryer launched in 1907, the first Piston Pump from 1903, and the Microvac line introduced in the 1950s, 60s, and 90s.

Despite several acquisitions, including EIS Group in 1987, TI Group in 1997, Smith Group in 1999, and Edwards in 2001, the Stokes brand has maintained its reputation as a reliable and globally recognized industrial vacuum brand.

Under Edwards’ ownership, Stokes has continued to grow, opening a Service Center in Glenwillow, Ohio in 2014, and a new facility in City of Industry, California in January 2019. Another facility is currently under development in Genesee County, New York, with an expected opening by the end of 2025.