Gretsch Guitars and Drums

Gretsch is a legendary American brand of musical instruments with a history spanning over 140 years. Founded in 1883 by Friedrich Gretsch, a German immigrant, the company initially produced banjos, tambourines, and drums in Brooklyn, New York. Over time, it became one of the most prestigious names in the guitar and percussion industries, known for 'That Great Gretsch Sound' popularized by artists like Chet Atkins and George Harrison.

Today, the brand operates under a unique ownership and distribution structure. While the Gretsch family, led by Fred W. Gretsch, retains ultimate ownership of the Gretsch company and its drum division, they entered into a strategic partnership with the Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) in 2002. Under this agreement, Fender handles the manufacturing, marketing, and global distribution of Gretsch guitars.

Manufacturing for Gretsch products is distributed across several countries to cater to different market segments. High-end Custom Shop and professional drum kits are often produced in the United States and Japan (specifically by Terada). Mid-range and entry-level lines, such as the Electromatic and Streamliner series, are manufactured in South Korea, Indonesia, and China.