samsung now owns denon bowers and wilkins Samsung’s subsidiary Harman has finalized its acquisition of Sound United, significantly enhancing its audio brand portfolio.
samsung now owns denon bowers and wilkins
Overview of the Acquisition
In a strategic move to bolster its presence in the audio market, Samsung’s Harman has completed the acquisition of Sound United, a former audio business of Masimo. The deal, valued at $350 million, was initially announced in May 2023. This acquisition brings several prestigious audio brands under the Harman umbrella, including Bowers & Wilkins, Denon, Marantz, Definitive Technology, Polk Audio, HEOS, Classé, and Boston Acoustics. These brands will now join JBL, Harman Kardon, and other audio entities that Samsung acquired when it purchased Harman for $8 billion in 2016.
Strategic Implications for Samsung and Harman
The acquisition of Sound United is not merely a financial transaction; it represents a calculated strategy by Samsung to enhance its audio offerings in a competitive market. By integrating a diverse range of well-established brands, Harman aims to solidify its position as a leader in the audio industry.
Expansion of Brand Portfolio
With this acquisition, Harman significantly expands its brand portfolio. Each of the brands under Sound United has a unique identity and customer base, which allows Harman to cater to a broader audience. The inclusion of high-end brands like Bowers & Wilkins and Marantz complements Harman’s existing offerings, enabling the company to target both premium and mid-range market segments.
Focus on Innovation and Quality
Dave Rogers, Harman’s lifestyle lead, emphasized the alignment of values between Sound United and Harman. In a statement, he noted, “Sound United’s impressive roster of brands is rooted in a deep passion for sound, innovation, and commitment to quality that aligns with Harman’s own values.” This shared commitment to quality and innovation is expected to drive future product development and enhance customer satisfaction.
Operational Structure Post-Acquisition
Following the completion of the acquisition, Sound United will operate as a standalone business within Harman’s lifestyle division. This operational structure is designed to ensure that each audio brand retains its distinct identity and customer base. Maintaining brand integrity is crucial, especially in the audio industry, where brand loyalty can significantly influence consumer purchasing decisions.
Maintaining Brand Identity
The decision to keep Sound United as a standalone entity allows the various brands to continue their unique marketing strategies and product development initiatives. For instance, Bowers & Wilkins is known for its premium audiophile products, while Polk Audio has a strong reputation for delivering quality sound at more accessible price points. By allowing these brands to operate independently, Harman can leverage their strengths while benefiting from shared resources and expertise.
Future Growth Opportunities
The acquisition is expected to unlock meaningful growth opportunities for Harman. With the combined resources and expertise of both companies, Harman is poised to enhance its product offerings and expand into new markets. The integration of Sound United’s brands can lead to innovative product developments, improved supply chain efficiencies, and enhanced customer experiences.
Market Context and Competitive Landscape
The audio market is highly competitive, with numerous players vying for consumer attention. Major competitors include Sony, Bose, and Apple, each offering a range of audio products that cater to different segments of the market. In this context, the acquisition of Sound United positions Harman to better compete against these established brands.
Consumer Trends in Audio Products
Consumer preferences in audio products have evolved significantly in recent years. The rise of streaming services and portable audio devices has changed how consumers interact with sound. As a result, there is a growing demand for high-quality audio solutions that can seamlessly integrate with modern technology. Harman’s acquisition of Sound United allows it to address these trends by offering a diverse range of products that meet the needs of today’s consumers.
Technological Advancements
Technological advancements in audio technology, such as wireless sound systems, smart speakers, and high-resolution audio formats, are reshaping the industry. By bringing Sound United’s brands into its portfolio, Harman can leverage these advancements to enhance its product offerings. The integration of innovative technologies will likely lead to the development of new audio solutions that cater to tech-savvy consumers.
Stakeholder Reactions
The acquisition has elicited various reactions from stakeholders, including industry analysts, competitors, and consumers. Many industry experts view the acquisition as a positive move for Harman, highlighting the potential for increased market share and enhanced product offerings.
Industry Analysts’ Perspectives
Industry analysts have praised the acquisition for its strategic alignment with Harman’s long-term goals. The addition of Sound United’s brands is seen as a way for Harman to diversify its product range and strengthen its competitive position. Analysts believe that the integration of these brands will not only enhance Harman’s market presence but also drive innovation in product development.
Consumer Sentiment
Consumer sentiment regarding the acquisition is mixed. While some consumers are excited about the potential for new and improved products, others express concerns about the impact on brand identity and product quality. Maintaining the unique characteristics of each brand will be essential for retaining customer loyalty and trust.
Masimo’s Focus Post-Acquisition
With the sale of Sound United now complete, Masimo can redirect its focus to other business ventures. Notably, the company is currently engaged in a legal battle with US Customs and Border Protection regarding its Apple Watch lawsuit, which it launched in August 2023. This lawsuit centers around the alleged infringement of Masimo’s patented technology, and the outcome could have significant implications for the company’s future.
Legal Challenges Ahead
The legal challenges faced by Masimo underscore the complexities of operating in the technology sector. The company’s focus on resolving these issues will be critical as it seeks to navigate the competitive landscape of both the audio and medical technology markets. The resolution of the lawsuit could impact Masimo’s financial standing and its ability to invest in future innovations.
Conclusion
The acquisition of Sound United by Harman represents a significant development in the audio industry, positioning Samsung as a formidable player in the market. By integrating a diverse range of established brands, Harman aims to enhance its product offerings and capitalize on emerging consumer trends. As the audio landscape continues to evolve, the success of this acquisition will depend on Harman’s ability to maintain brand integrity while driving innovation and growth.
Source: Original report
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Last Modified: September 24, 2025 at 2:38 pm
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