SCOTTSDALE, ARIZ. (JANUARY 8, 2019) — Fender® Musical Instruments Corp (FMIC) announced on January 8 the acquisition of the Bigsby® brand and its assets from Fred Gretsch Enterprises.
The Gretsch family and FMIC have a longstanding relationship and have partnered to ensure that the transition of the business is a smooth one.
“We are excited to acquire Bigsby® and add to our esteemed portfolio of specialty brands.” said Jeff Cary, Senior Vice President of FMIC Specialty Brands. “There is such a rich history with the vibratos, and a mystique around the guitars, pedals and steel instruments that is fascinating. Fred and Dinah Gretsch have been wonderful owners and we look forward to working with them to ensure a smooth transition.”
“Paul Bigsby, Ted McCarty, Dinah and Fred Gretsch and Fender Musical Instruments Corp. all have one thing in common, an unquestioning dedication to product excellence over the long haul,” said Fred Gretsch. “We congratulate team Fender on this strategic acquisition.”
Bigsby® vibrato tailpieces have a long history that dates back to the earliest days of the modern electric guitar. Wildly popular with guitarists as an aftermarket product, the vibratos are featured on a wide range of instruments as original equipment offered by dozens of guitar manufacturers around the world.
Bigsby® will continue to run as a standalone business under FMIC’s Specialty Brands. Orders, inquiries or questions should be directed to Jeff Krause (JKrause@fender.com), who will be leading the business out of the FMIC Scottsdale, Arizona, office.
FMIC is currently working with a team in Pooler, Ga., to integrate the business into its systems before moving it physically to a new location.
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ABOUT FENDER MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS CORPORATION:
Since 1946, Fender has revolutionized music and culture as one of the world’s leading musical instrument manufacturers, marketers and distributors. Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC), whose portfolio of brands includes Fender®, Squier®, Gretsch® guitars, Jackson®, EVH® and Charvel®, follows a player-centric approach to crafting the highest quality instruments and musical solutions across genres. FMIC is dedicated to unlocking the power of music through electric and acoustic guitars, amplifiers, pro audio, accessories and digital products that inspire and enable musical expression at every stage, from beginners to history-making legends.