Who owns Aston Martin in 2024? It is a question that resonates with car enthusiasts and business aficionados alike. Aston Martin, renowned for its luxury sports cars and a name synonymous with British elegance, has a rich and tumultuous history of ownership. From its humble beginnings in 1913 to its current status as a global icon, the journey of Aston Martin’s ownership reveals a saga of passion, financial upheaval, and strategic business moves.
Bamford & Martin (1913 – 1926)
The story of Aston Martin began in 1913 when Robert Bamford and Lionel Martin founded the company as Bamford & Martin Ltd. These two visionaries set out to create a vehicle that combined speed and style. However, the company faced financial difficulties early on, leading to its first change in ownership.
In 1926, the company was taken over by a consortium led by Renwick and Bertelli. Augustus Bertelli, an engineer, brought new designs and innovation, saving Aston Martin from an early demise. This period saw the brand developing its reputation in motorsports, laying the foundation for future successes.
David Brown Ltd. (1947 – 1972)
Who owns Aston Martin after World War II? The post-war era brought significant changes when industrialist David Brown acquired the company in 1947 for £20,500. Under Brown’s leadership, Aston Martin launched some of its most iconic models, including the DB series. His tenure was marked by racing victories and the birth of the legendary DB5, famously driven by James Bond.
However, the 1970s and 80s were turbulent for Aston Martin. In 1972, the company was sold to Company Developments Ltd., led by William Willson. Financial instability led to multiple restructurings and a series of different owners, including a failed bid by American entrepreneur Peter Sprague.
Ford (1987 – 2007)
In 1987, Ford Motor Company acquired a controlling stake in Aston Martin, marking the beginning of a new era. Ford’s ownership brought much-needed financial stability and global reach. The brand introduced successful models like the DB7 and V8 Vantage. Ford’s involvement was instrumental in modernizing the brand and expanding its global footprint.
This period saw the brand focusing on expanding its model range and increasing production capacity.
Fast forward to 2012, the Italian private equity fund Investindustrial acquired a 37.5% stake in Aston Martin. This injection of capital was crucial for the brand’s ambitious plans, including the development of new models and expansion into new markets. Under Investindustrial, Aston Martin saw a revival in its fortunes and the launch of the highly anticipated DB11.
Lawrence Stroll Owns Aston Martin (2020 – Present)
So, who owns Aston Martin now? In 2020, Canadian billionaire and investor Lawrence Stroll led a consortium to acquire a 25% stake in Aston Martin. Stroll’s investment brought new leadership and vision to the company, with Tobias Moers of Mercedes-AMG taking on the role of CEO of Aston Martin Lagonda Group Limited.
Stroll’s influence is pivotal as the brand aims to expand its product range and enter the luxury SUV market with models like the DBX.
Who owns Aston Martin now?
A consortium led by Canadian billionaire Lawrence Stroll acquired a 25% stake in Aston Martin in 2020. Stroll is the current chairman, and Tobias Moers from Mercedes-AMG is the CEO.
