Fender Corporation, also known as Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC), is an American manufacturer of musical instruments and amplifiers. Founded by Clarence Leonidas “Leo” Fender in 1946 in Fullerton, California, Fender is renowned for its electric guitars and basses, including iconic models like the Stratocaster, Telecaster, Jazzmaster, Precision Bass, and Jazz Bass. As a leading player in the music industry, Fender has expanded its reach through a portfolio of subsidiary companies and brand acquisitions.
Fender-Owned Brands
Fender owns several prominent brands in the music industry. Some of the notable Fender-owned companies include:
| Brand | Description |
|---|---|
| EVH Guitars | Eddie Van Halen’s brand featuring electric guitars, amps, and accessories. |
| Charvel Guitars | High-performance guitars known for their craftsmanship and playability. |
| Jackson Guitars | Uniquely designed guitars favored by many heavy metal guitarists. |
| Squier | Affordable versions of popular Fender models for beginner players. |
| Bigsby Electric Guitar Company | Manufacturer of vibrato tailpieces for electric guitars. |
Fender’s Acquisitions and Partnerships
In addition to its owned brands, Fender has made significant acquisitions in the music industry, expanding its range of instruments and amplifiers. Some noteworthy acquisitions and partnerships include:
- Guild Guitar Company – Renowned manufacturer of acoustic and electric guitars.
- Sunn Amplifier Company – A pioneer in amplifier technology.
- SWR Sound Corporation – Producer of high-quality bass amplification systems.
- Tacoma Guitars – Manufacturer of acoustic guitars known for their craftsmanship.
- Kaman Music Corporation – Owner of brands like Ovation guitars and Hamer guitars.
Key Takeaways:
- Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC), also known as Fender, is an American manufacturer of musical instruments and amplifiers.
- Fender owns several subsidiary companies and brands, including EVH Guitars, Charvel, Jackson Guitars, Squier, and Bigsby.
- The company has made acquisitions in the music industry, including Guild Guitar Company, Sunn Amplifier Company, SWR Sound Corporation, Tacoma Guitars, and Kaman Music Corporation.
- With its diverse portfolio, Fender offers a wide range of instruments, amplifiers, and accessories for musicians.
- Servco Pacific acquired majority ownership of Fender in January 2020.
Fender-Owned Brands
Fender, the renowned manufacturer of musical instruments and amplifiers, owns a diverse range of prominent brands in the music industry. These brands offer a variety of products that cater to different musical styles and preferences.
EVH Guitars
One of the notable brands under the Fender umbrella is EVH Guitars. Named after the legendary guitarist Eddie Van Halen, EVH Guitars offers a range of electric guitars, amplifiers, and accessories. These instruments are designed to deliver the distinct sound and playability that Eddie Van Halen is known for.
Charvel Guitars
Charvel Guitars is another brand owned by Fender, known for its high-performance guitars. Originally started by Wayne Charvel, the brand gained popularity under the ownership of Grover Jackson. Charvel guitars are favored by musicians looking for instruments that offer exceptional playability and precision.
Jackson Guitars
Jackson Guitars, also created by Grover Jackson, is recognized for its bold and innovative guitar designs. With a focus on heavy metal and hard rock genres, Jackson guitars are favored by many renowned guitarists. The brand is renowned for its eye-catching aesthetics and powerful sound.
Squier
Squier focuses on producing affordable versions of popular Fender models, making them accessible to beginner players. Squier guitars provide an excellent entry point for aspiring musicians who want to experience the renowned Fender sound without breaking the bank. These instruments offer solid performance and quality craftsmanship at a more budget-friendly price point.
Bigsby Electric Guitar Company
Fender also acquired the Bigsby Electric Guitar Company, known for its vibrato tailpieces. Bigsby tailpieces are iconic in the world of electric guitars and have been used by many legendary musicians. The brand continues to produce high-quality vibrato systems that add a unique touch to guitars.
| Brand | Description |
|---|---|
| EVH Guitars | Range of electric guitars, amplifiers, and accessories developed by Eddie Van Halen. |
| Charvel Guitars | High-performance guitars favored for their playability and precision. |
| Jackson Guitars | Innovative guitar designs with a focus on heavy metal and hard rock genres. |
| Squier | Affordable versions of popular Fender models, suitable for beginner players. |
| Bigsby Electric Guitar Company | Produces vibrato tailpieces that add a unique touch to guitars. |
Fender’s Acquisitions and Partnerships
In addition to its owned brands, Fender has made several acquisitions in the music industry. One notable acquisition is the Guild Guitar Company, a renowned manufacturer of acoustic and electric guitars. With this partnership, Fender has expanded its offerings to include high-quality instruments loved by musicians worldwide.
Fender also ventured into the amplifier market by acquiring the Sunn Amplifier Company and SWR Sound Corporation. These strategic moves have allowed Fender to diversify its product line and provide musicians with a wide range of amplifiers to suit their individual needs.
Furthermore, Fender’s acquisition of Tacoma Guitars has bolstered its commitment to craftsmanship and innovation. Tacoma Guitars, known for their exceptional quality and unique designs, align perfectly with Fender’s dedication to exceptional musical instruments.
Kaman Music Corporation is another noteworthy acquisition by Fender. Through this partnership, Fender gained ownership of brands such as Ovation guitars and Hamer guitars. This expansion has solidified Fender’s position as a leading provider of quality instruments in the music industry.
FAQ
What companies does Fender own?
Fender owns several subsidiary companies and brands, including Bigsby, Charvel, EVH, Gretsch, Jackson, PreSonus, Squier, and Sunn.
What are some of the Fender-owned brands?
Fender-owned brands include EVH Guitars, Charvel Guitars, Jackson Guitars, Squier, and the Bigsby Electric Guitar Company.
What acquisitions has Fender made in the music industry?
Fender has acquired the Guild Guitar Company, Sunn Amplifier Company, SWR Sound Corporation, Tacoma Guitars, and Kaman Music Corporation, which owned brands such as Ovation guitars and Hamer guitars.