A New Chapter in Lifting Innovation — The Launch of Slingmax Group
In a strategic move that marks a new era of collaboration and innovation, Yale Cordage, Slingmax Rigging Solutions®, and I&I Sling have officially united under a new parent organization: the Slingmax Group. This consolidation isn’t just a merger of three powerful names in the rigging, lifting, and high-performance rope industries — it’s a bold step toward reshaping the future of lifting technology on a global scale. At the core of this union is a shared commitment to delivering the safest and most reliable solutions in the lifting and rigging industry.
“Each of these companies brings decades of engineering excellence and customer trust to the table,” said Chris Chrisafides, Chief Executive Officer of Slingmax Group. “Bringing these brands together under one roof allows us to align our strengths, streamline our operations, and present a unified vision while still honoring the legacy and identity of each brand.”
Three Industry Leaders, One Group
Founded in 1950, Yale Cordage pioneered the use of synthetic materials and advanced braiding techniques, revolutionizing the rope industry. Today, it remains a leader in high-performance synthetic rope design and fabrication, delivering dependable, safety-first solutions used everywhere from sea to tree canopies. Yale’s strengths in the electric utility, arborist, and inland marine markets provide a unique and invaluable opportunity for the Slingmax Group to expand its reach beyond the rigging and lifting space.
Slingmax Rigging Solutions is a global leader in advanced synthetic and wire rope rigging products, best known for its Twin-Path® high-performance roundsling and industry-first technologies like the patented Check-Fast® and Rifled Cover® systems. With 45 full-service manufacturing locations across 12 countries, its network of independently licensed fabricators ensures consistent quality and rapid service. Slingmax holds over 50 patents and is synonymous with innovation and reliability in the heavy lift market, providing the Slingmax Group with the industry reputation to solidify its standing as the premier provider of safe lifting and rigging solutions.
I&I Sling has been serving the crane and heavy lift industry for over 60 years, with six manufacturing plants along the East Coast. I&I Sling is known for its custom slings, round-the-clock service, NCCCO-certified product experts, technical training, and proof-tested equipment built to the highest safety standards. Leading the industry with quality, innovation, and an unwavering focus on safe lifting practices, I&I Sling and its six branch locations provide overhead lifting product expertise and regional presence to the Slingmax Group.
Under the Slingmax Group, each entity will retain its distinct brand identity — not as separate companies, but as collaborators with shared values and a common mission. “This isn’t about losing individuality — it’s about amplifying it under common goals,” Chrisafides said. “Yale Cordage, Slingmax, and I&I Sling are now recognized as brands within the Slingmax Group. Each continues to lead in its area of expertise, and now we’re empowering them with even greater resources and reach.”
One Voice for Innovation and Customer Service
The new Slingmax Group structure allows the brands to share Engineering, Quality, and Marketing resources while expanding rigging, cordage, and industrial solutions to customers with greater efficiency and speed. It also sets the platform for both national and global growth, new technologies, and industry leadership.
“Whether you’re ordering a high-performance rope from Yale Cordage, a Twin-Path sling from a Slingmax dealer, or on-site service from I&I Sling, it’s now clear that you’re working with part of a greater whole — a company committed to safety and success,” Chrisafides noted.
Looking Forward
The formation of Slingmax Group is more than just creating a parent company — it’s a promise to customers, industry partners, and employees that this group will continue delivering exceptional products. The Helix Roundsling, for instance, is the first collaborative product from Slingmax Rigging Solutions and Yale Cordage. It features an HMPE jacket braided by Yale Cordage, — resulting in a high-performance roundsling designed to deliver superior strength with a narrow width footprint for heavy lifting applications.
Whether it’s lifting hardware for large-scale construction or double-braided rope for the inland marine market, the Slingmax Group is forging a new path in lifting technology. As the lifting industry evolves, so too must the companies that lead it. United by a deep-rooted focus on innovation, reliability, and, safety — the Slingmax Group is not just ready for the future — it’s shaping it.
Visit the Slingmax Group website to learn more about the group, and the Yale Cordage, Slingmax, and I&I Sling websites to learn more about each brand.