25 classic American brands now owned by foreign companies – 24/7 Wall St.

Promoting entrepreneurship has been a cornerstone of America’s economy and society since the country’s inception. Many American companies – those that started nearly 200 years ago as well as those as young as ten years old – have expanded not only nationally but also globally. Names like Coca Cola, McDonald’s, Disney and Apple are among the most recognizable brands in the world.

But global recognition has sparked interest from overseas companies, and some of those iconic American brands are no longer in American hands. (Also see, these companies control more than 50% of their industry.)

To find 25 classic American brands that are actually owned by foreigners, 24/7 Wall St. reviewed data from a variety of sources, with a focus on company filings, websites and press releases as well as the financial media. After assembling an initial universe of around fifty brands, we exercised editorial discretion in choosing the final list with the aim of including the best known, most iconic brands, as well as some of those whose would least expect to have foreign owners. (Our list is by no means exhaustive.)

Click here to see 25 classic American brands now owned by foreign companies.

Our list includes six companies that started in the 19th century, 12 companies born in the first half of the 20th century, another six companies that started later in the 1900s, and a relative newcomer in 2004.

The companies operate in various industries, including food and beverage, medical, home appliances, technology, oil and gas, pet food, and even jewelry. It may come as a surprise that some of the brands on the list are owned by foreigners, but others, like Budweiser and Lucky Strike, have caused quite a stir when they have passed into foreign hands. (Here are the the most valuable beer brands in the world.)