What Companies Does Fender Own: A Comprehensive Look at Their Portfolio

You’re likely familiar with the iconic brand of Fender, a company that has left an indelible mark on the music industry. Fender Musical Instruments Corporation is known worldwide for its top-tier electric guitars and amplifiers. But have you ever wondered what other companies are under Fender’s wide-reaching umbrella?

Branching out from their core business, Fender owns several other companies which cater to diverse aspects of music production. These acquisitions allow them to provide a comprehensive suite of products for musicians, from guitars and basses to software technology.

Among others, Gretsch Guitars, Jackson Guitars, and EVH Gear are notable names in the list of companies owned by Fender. Each one adds unique value to Fender’s portfolio, enhancing the parent company’s reputation as a dominant force in the global music industry.

A Snapshot of Fender’s History

Let’s take a trip back in time to understand the evolution of the legendary music brand, Fender. Born in 1946, Fender Musical Instruments Corporation has grown into one of the world’s leading manufacturers of stringed instruments and amplifiers. The man behind this success was Clarence Leonidas “Leo” Fender.

In 1965, Leo sold his company to CBS due to health problems. This period is often referred to as the “CBS era”, during which several changes were made to Fender’s classic guitar designs. Some loved these tweaks; others felt they detracted from the original charm.

Come 1985, and things changed again for Fender when it was acquired by an investor group led by William Schultz. This marked a new era known as the ‘FMIC era’ or ‘modern times’ where there was a significant improvement in product quality and consistency.

Now that you’ve got an idea about how Fender evolved over time, let’s talk about its acquisitions:

• In 2007, Kaman Music Corporation became part of the Fender family.
• Adding another feather in its cap, Fender purchased Groove Tubes, an amplifier tube supplier in 2008.
• The year 2012 saw them acquiring Starcaster by Fender guitars along with distribution rights for Gretsch Drums and Gibraltar Hardware from KMC Music Inc.

These acquisitions have served to strengthen their presence across various segments within the music industry.

The table below provides a snapshot of companies owned by Fender:

While it’s clear that ownership changes have been a part of their journey, what remains consistent is their commitment towards producing high-quality musical instruments that strike a chord with musicians around the globe.

Unraveling Fender’s Subsidiaries

When it comes to the world of music, Fender is a name that might ring a bell. You’d recognize this iconic brand for its top-tier guitars and amplifiers. But did you know that they’re not just ‘Fender’? Yes, there’s more to this musical titan than meets the eye. Let’s delve into the myriad companies that fall under Fender’s umbrella.

Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC), as it’s officially known, owns an impressive portfolio of brands. From manufacturers of stringed instruments and amps to those specializing in accessories – these are all part of the Fender family:

• Jackson Guitars: Known for their electric guitars and electric basses.
• Charvel: This one specializes in electric guitars too.
• Gretsch Drums: If you’re a percussionist, you’ll appreciate Gretsch Drums.
• EVH Gear: Named after Eddie Van Halen, EVH Gear produces amplifiers and other gear.
• Squier: An offshoot brand making budget-friendly versions of Fender products.

Each subsidiary brings something unique to FMIC’s table.

It isn’t just about diversifying product offerings or reaching out to different consumer segments. It also plays out strategically for Fender when it comes to market positioning and competition. Each subsidiary effectively operates within its own niche while collectively contributing towards reinforcing the larger presence of FMIC in music circles globally.

So next time when you strum those strings or beat that drum, remember; there’s a good chance it’s all interconnected in the vast network we know as FENDER!

Looking into Gretsch: A Part of the Fender Family?

If you’re a music enthusiast, you’ve likely heard of Gretsch, a renowned name in the industry. But did you know it’s part of the Fender Musical Instruments Corporation? Let’s delve into this fascinating relationship.

In 2002, Gretsch and Fender entered into an agreement that gave Fender exclusive rights to develop, produce, advertise, and distribute Gretsch guitars worldwide. This strategic move made sense for both companies. For Gretsch, partnering with Fender – one of the largest names in guitar production – meant gaining access to top-notch manufacturing capabilities and vast distribution networks.

For Fender on their end, acquiring these rights not only enriched their portfolio but also allowed them to cater to a wider range of musicians. In terms of product design and development though, it’s important to note that Gretsch still maintains considerable autonomy under this arrangement.

To put things into perspective:

• Before acquisition: Gretsch was known for its distinctive “twangy” sound popular among rockabilly and country artists.
• After acquisition: The brand has managed to retain its unique identity while benefiting from Fender’s extensive resources.

However, it isn’t just about guitars alone. You’ll find that this partnership extends beyond six strings as Gretsch also produces drums, which are distributed by KMC Music Company – another member of the ‘Fender family.’

So yes! When you strum a Gretsh guitar or hit those drum beats on a Gretsh set-up, remember they’re indeed part of the diverse offerings from the mighty Fender empire!

The Tale Behind Jackson Guitars

If you’re a music aficionado, then you’ve probably heard of Jackson Guitars. But did you know it’s one of the companies owned by Fender? That’s right! This iconic brand is part of Fender’s impressive portfolio.

Jackson Guitars was born in the late 1970s when a certain guitarist named Randy Rhoads approached Grover Jackson, the company’s namesake. He wanted something unique, something that’d stand out on stage – and boy did he get it!

The collaboration between Rhoads and Jackson resulted in the creation of the legendary ‘Concorde’, an innovative guitar that truly pushed boundaries. Its asymmetric flying-V design set a new standard for what an electric guitar could be. And so began Jackson’s journey to becoming renowned worldwide as metal and hard rock legends’ go-to choice.

But how did this maverick company end up under Fender’s wing? Here’s where things get interesting. In 2002, Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) scooped up Jackson Guitars, adding yet another all-star name to their already formidable roster.

Here are some key dates in this acquisition story:

Being part of FMIC has allowed Jackson to continue its tradition of innovation while benefiting from Fender’s vast resources and reach. So next time you marvel at a sleek, bold Jackson Guitar on stage or in-store, remember: it’s part of the remarkable family tree that makes up Fender Musical Instruments Corporation.

Just imagine how many epic solos have been shredded on these instruments over the years! From hair-raising high notes to bone-rattling bass lines – there’s no denying that Fender and its subsidiaries like Jackson have played a huge role in shaping our modern musical landscape.

The Acquisition of Charvel by Fender

Let’s dive right into it. When it comes to guitar manufacturing titans, few names rival that of Fender. And one notable brand in their impressive portfolio is none other than Charvel.

In the realm of high-performance electric guitars, you’ll find Charvel standing tall. Known for its distinctive designs and innovative craftsmanship, this brand has graced many a stage since its inception in the late 1970s.

So how did Fender acquire Charvel? Well, it wasn’t a sudden move. Back in 2002, Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) saw an opportunity to expand its already diverse range and swept up both Jackson/Charvel brands from IMC (International Music Corporation). This move marked Fender’s entrance into the higher-end guitar market – a space where Charvel had long established dominance.

Following this acquisition, there were significant changes in both companies’ operations. However, Fender was keen on preserving Charvel’s core identity while infusing some of its own innovation and expertise into the mix.

Here are some key dates regarding this acquisition:

Despite initial worries from fans about possible dilution of the brand post-acquisition, these concerns quickly faded away as it became apparent that under Fender’s stewardship, Charvel thrived further.

To give you an idea about how well-received these changes were among musicians and enthusiasts alike:

• The guitars retained their quality
• There was an improvement in production processes
• More innovative designs were introduced

This successful corporate relationship between Fender and Charlev is truly emblematic of what can be achieved when heritage meets innovation!

How Squier Became a Fender Brand

When you’re strumming those strings on your Squier guitar, have you ever wondered how it became part of the iconic Fender family? It’s an intriguing story that dates back to the mid-20th century.

Squier was originally an independent entity known as V.C. Squier Company, started in 1890 by Victor Carroll Squier in Battle Creek, Michigan. The company made its mark producing high-quality strings for violins, banjos, and guitars.

In the early 1960s, Fender, always on the lookout for quality string suppliers, noticed the superior products of V.C. Squier Company. They were impressed and decided to buy out the company in 1965.

The name ‘Squier’ disappeared for while after this acquisition but re-emerged in 1982 when Fender decided to launch a new line of low-cost guitars aimed at novice players or those on a budget. These instruments were essentially less expensive versions of their classic models like the Stratocaster and Telecaster.

To distinguish these from their regular line-up while maintaining a connection to their prestigious brand name, they chose to resurrect the ‘Squier’ nameplate. Thus began what we now know as Squier by Fender, providing affordable yet quality alternatives under Fenders unwavering commitment towards musical innovation.

So next time you pick up your Squier guitar remember: it might be easy on your wallet but it carries with it more than a hundred years of history and tradition — all underpinned by that world-famous FENDER stamp.

Bigsby’s Involvement in the Fender Empire

When you’re talking about Fender, there’s a name that might frequently pop up: Bigsby. That’s because Bigsby is indeed part of the Fender family. Let’s dive deep into how this association occurred.

Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) acquired Bigsby in early 1999. So, it’s been over two decades since these two became intertwined. You may wonder, why did Fender decide to acquire Bigsby? The answer lies in Bigsby’s rich history and their reputation for crafting top-quality vibrato tailpieces.

Here are some key dates regarding the acquisition:

Bigsby was founded back in 1947 by Paul Adelburt Bigsby. Known for its distinctive vibrato tailpieces, used by guitar legends like Duane Eddy and Neil Young, it built a solid reputation among musicians worldwide.

The company itself has always remained committed to quality craftsmanship which align with Fender’s values perfectly. This commitment is evident even today as they continue producing their well-renowned products under the Fender umbrella.

So what does this mean for you as a musician? Simply put, when you buy a product from either company, you’re not just getting an instrument or accessory; you’re gaining access to decades of refined expertise and shared passion from both brands – each contributing something unique to your music-making journey.

Remember though that while they are under one parent company, Fender and Bigsy still maintain separate identities – keeping their individual traditions alive while working together to innovate and inspire musicians around the globe.

EVH: Another Iconic Brand Under Fender’s Wing?

You might be wondering, “Does Fender own EVH?” Well, you’re in the right place for an answer. Fender indeed owns EVH, a brand named after Eddie Van Halen, one of the most influential guitarists of his generation. This acquisition by Fender has bolstered their already impressive collection of music brands.

In 2007, Eddie Van Halen joined hands with Fender to launch EVH. The objective was clear-cut – design and produce guitars that meet the exacting standards set by Eddie himself. His contributions to the rock ‘n’ roll scene are legendary and having his name on a line of guitars is nothing short of prestigious.

The association between these two giants in the music industry allowed for some truly groundbreaking products. You’ve likely come across models like Wolfgang, Frankenstein, or even the iconic 5150 series amps–all fruits of this collaboration.

Here’s a quick look at some popular offerings:

• Wolfgang USA Edward Van Halen Signature
• Striped Series Electric Guitars
• 5150 Series Deluxe Poplar Burl

These aren’t just instruments; they’re pieces from history molded into physical form through meticulous craftsmanship, reflecting both Van Halen’s sonic legacy and Fender’s commitment to quality.

And it doesn’t end there! The impact reaches beyond mere production lines. It’s about giving every guitarist access to top-tier gear that stands up to professional demands while honoring an absolute legend in music history.

So yes, it can be confidently stated that EVH falls under the vast umbrella of brands owned by Fender. Their cooperative venture solidifies their presence in the music world as more than manufacturers—they become partakers and continuers of rock ‘n’ roll tradition.

Understanding Who Do These Brands Help, and Why It Matters for You

Let’s take a step back and ask, who do these brands really help? The answer is quite simple. If you’re an aspiring musician looking to get your hands on a quality instrument, Fender’s subsidiaries have got you covered.

For instance, Gretsch Drums is a popular choice among drummers worldwide. Similarly, if you’re into folk or acoustic music, Guild Guitars could be your go-to brand. For those of you interested in synthesizers and keyboard instruments, the products offered by Hammond are worth checking out.

But why should this matter to you?

Well firstly, knowing who owns what gives you more control over your purchases. You’ll understand where your money is going and can make more informed decisions about which brands align with your values.

Secondly, it’s about quality assurance. Fender has built up a strong reputation over the years as a leading musical instrument company. When they purchase other brands, they bring with them that same standard of excellence. So when you buy from any one of Fender’s subsidiaries – Gretsch Drums or Guild Guitars– there’s an inherent level of trust attached to it due to their association with Fender.

Finally, this knowledge opens up new possibilities for variety and choice. Each subsidiary under Fender has its own unique sound profile that caters to different music styles:

• Gretsch Drums: Known for resonant tones perfect for jazz and rock
• Guild Guitars: Specializes in rich sounding acoustic guitars
• Hammond: Renowned for their classic organ sounds

So next time when choosing between different musical instrument companies keep in mind not just the price point but also who owns them! Knowing that these well-regarded brands are backed by Fender might just tilt the scales in their favor.

Insightful Round-Up On What Companies Does Fender Own

Ever wondered about the range of brands under the umbrella of Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC)? You’re in the right place. Let’s dive into this fascinating world and reveal some surprising names that are part of FMIC.

Firstly, there’s Gretsch Drums and Jackson Guitars, two renowned brands in their respective fields. Next up, we’ve got Charvel, a brand known for its high-quality electric guitars. Then there’s EVH named after Eddie Van Halen himself. These are just a few examples; FMIC’s portfolio is quite diverse.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Fender isn’t just about making music – it’s also deeply invested in shaping how music sounds through various amplifier brands. They own SWR Sound Corporation, an esteemed name in bass amplification technology.

Of course, let’s not forget Squier. Originally purchased by Fender to fend off copycat manufacturers, Squier has become a go-to brand for beginners seeking affordable yet reliable instruments.

With such diversity under one roof, it’s no wonder Fender continues to be a powerhouse in the global music industry. It doesn’t matter if you’re an expert musician or someone who’s just starting out – chances are there’s a brand owned by Fender that fits your needs perfectly.