Over the past two decades, Chinese companies have increasingly acquired well-known European brands across various industries. These acquisitions reflect China’s strategic expansion into global markets, influencing sectors from automotive to fashion. In the quest to find products made in EU, it is important to be aware of these take-overs.
Here are ten notable European brands that have come under Chinese ownership:
1. Volvo Cars (Sweden) – Automotive
In 2010, Chinese automotive giant Geely acquired Volvo Cars from Ford for $1.8 billion. This acquisition marked a significant move in the automotive industry, allowing Volvo to expand its global footprint while maintaining its brand identity and engineering excellence.
2. Lanvin (France) – Fashion
In 2018, Fosun International acquired a majority stake in Lanvin, France’s oldest fashion house. China’s Fosun Fashion Group also owns a medley of brands including St. John Knits, Caruso, Wolford and Tom Tailor. The acquisition was part of Fosun’s strategy to build a global luxury fashion portfolio. Lately, Fosun has increased it’s strategic focus with Lavin.
3. Philips (Netherlands) – Home Appliances
Philips is actually not owned by a Chinese company. The company is a Dutch multinational corporation founded in 1891 and headquartered in Amsterdam, Netherlands. However, in 2021, Philips sold its household appliances arm to Hillhouse Capital, a Chinese investment firm, for €3.7 billion. This sale was part of Philips’ strategy to focus more on its core healthcare business. The household appliance arm was producing consumer electronics and small appliances under brands like Philips, Gaggia, and Saeco.
4. Sandro, Maje & Claudie Pierlot (France) – Fashion
In 2016, Chinese textile giant Shandong Ruyi acquired a controlling stake in SMCP Group, the parent company of French fashion brands Sandro, Maje, and Claudie Pierlot. The acquisition aimed to expand SMCP’s presence in the Asian market.
5. Benelli (Italy) – Motorcycles
In 2005, Chinese company Qianjiang Group acquired Benelli, one of Italy’s oldest motorcycle manufacturers. The acquisition aimed to combine Italian design with Chinese manufacturing capabilities to produce motorcycles for global markets.
Conclusion
The growing presence of Chinese investors in the European consumer market reflects broader shifts in global economic influence. While many of these brands have maintained their original design heritage and identity, their strategic direction, production, and expansion are increasingly shaped by international ownership. At OriginEU.quest, we will try to highlight brands and products that are 100% owned by European companies.
