Fender Musical Instruments Corp. (FMIC) acquired 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 the Bigsby brand 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.”
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.
“Paul Bigsby, Ted McCarty, Dinah and Fred Gretsch and Fender Musical Instruments Corp. all have one thing in common and that is an unquestioning dedication to product excellence over the long haul,” said Fred Gretsch. “We congratulate team Fender on this strategic acquisition.”
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.