How a 1953 engineering partnership became a multi-billion dollar Samsung subsidiary
In short: What began as a duo of engineers developing high-fidelity audio in 1953 has evolved into a global powerhouse. Through decades of aggressive acquisitions and a massive $8 billion sale to Samsung, Harman has transformed from a boutique audio firm into a leader in automotive technology.
The origins of Harman lie in the collaboration between Sidney Harman and Bernard Kardon. Both engineers previously worked at the Bogen Company, a manufacturer of public address systems, before founding Harman Kardon in 1953. While the pair initially focused on high-fidelity audio products, the corporate structure shifted early on; Sidney Harman bought out his partner in 1956, eventually expanding the business into what would become Harman International. The company's early trajectory was also shaped by political service; in the 1970s, Sidney Harman served as the United States Deputy Secretary of Commerce during the Carter administration. To prevent any potential conflicts of interest regarding his government role, he chose to sell the company to the conglomerate Beatrice Foods.
The company's growth has been defined by a relentless strategy of acquisition. In the 1960s, the firm brought JBL into its fold, and the 1980s saw a massive expansion following its 1986 public offering on the New'$. This era included the purchase of brands like Soundcraft, AKG, and Infinity. By the 2010s, the company's scope moved far beyond consumer speakers, acquiring automotive divisions like Bang & Olufsen's car unit for $156 million in 2015 and lighting specialist Martin Professional in 2013. This expansion into specialized sectors continued with the 2003 purchase of Madrigal Audio Laboratories, which brought the Mark Levinson and Revel brands under their umbrella. The firm also integrated MWM Acoustics in 2011 and AMX LLC in 2014.
Today, Harman operates as an independent subsidiary of Samsung Electronics, following an $8 billion cash acquisition agreement reached in late 2016. The company's modern focus emphasizes software, connectivity, and automotive safety. Recent moves include the 2025 agreement to acquire several consumer audio brands from Masimo and a 2025 announcement to acquire ZF Group's advanced driver-assistance system business for €1.5 billion, a deal expected to transfer roughly 3,750 employees. The company's strategic pivot toward software became evident in 2015 through the acquisition of Symphony Teleca and the Israeli firm Redbend. Furthermore, the 2016 purchase of the cybersecurity company TowerSec highlighted a clear ambition to dominate in-car entertainment and safety technology.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Harman International
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