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Bowers & Wilkins High-End Audio Systems

ownerHarman International Industries (South Korea)
originUnited Kingdom
manufacturedPrimarily in United Kingdom and China, with some production in Europe

Brand Heritage and Innovation

Bowers & Wilkins, often referred to as B&W, is a globally recognized leader in the luxury audio industry. Founded in 1966 by John Bowers and Roy Wilkins in Worthing, West Sussex, England, the brand has built a reputation for pioneering audio technology. From their iconic Nautilus speaker to their high-performance headphones, B&W is celebrated for its commitment to 'true sound' and engineering excellence.

Manufacturing and Global Presence

While the brand's premium 800 Series Diamond speakers are still meticulously handcrafted at its original factory in Worthing, UK, much of the company's mass-market consumer electronics, such as the PX headphones and wireless speakers, are manufactured in specialized facilities in China and other locations. This dual manufacturing strategy allows the brand to maintain high-end craftsmanship while scaling its globally popular consumer products.

Ownership and Evolution

The ownership history of Bowers & Wilkins has seen significant changes in recent years. In 2016, the brand was acquired by Silicon Valley startup Eva Automation. However, a major shift occurred in 2020 when Sound United LLC, a leading audio portfolio company, acquired B&W. In 2022, Sound United was itself acquired by Masimo Corporation, a global medical technology company headquartered in the United States. Today, Bowers & Wilkins operates as a flagship brand under Masimo’s consumer audio division, continuing its legacy of British audio engineering under American corporate ownership.

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