Iconic American Companies Owned by Chinese Investors

Headquarters: Livonia, Michigan
Bought By: Wanxiang Group
Headquarters: Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China

Based in Livonia, Michigan, A123 Systems is a pioneer in the development and manufacturing of advanced lithium-ion batteries and energy storage systems. In 2013, the firm was acquired by Wanxiang Group, a major Chinese auto parts manufacturer, for approximately $257 million.

This acquisition marked a significant step in China’s strategic drive to lead in the electric vehicle (EV) sector. By acquiring A123 Systems, Wanxiang gained access to advanced battery technology, a critical component for EVs. The deal also demonstrates China’s desire to secure vital resources and technology abroad to fuel its rapidly growing and evolving domestic markets, particularly in industries with significant environmental impact.

Headquarters: New York City, New York
Bought By: A consortium of Chinese investors led by Zhang Zhiyong
Headquarters: N/A

Media.net, while headquartered in Dubai and New York, is a key player in the ad tech industry, providing businesses with an array of sophisticated advertising tools and services. In 2016, a Chinese consortium led by Zhiyong Zhang, the chairman of Beijing Miteno Communication Technology, acquired Media.net for a staggering $900 million.

This deal marked one of the largest acquisitions in the ad tech industry and illustrated China’s strategic push into the global digital advertising market. Through Media.net, the Chinese consortium gained access to cutting-edge advertising technologies and a significant customer base, which could potentially enhance China’s growing digital economy and its global influence in the digital advertising sector.

Headquarters: Menlo Park, California
Bought By: Tencent
Headquarters: Shenzhen, Guangdong, China

Based in Menlo Park, California, Pacific Biosciences (PacBio) is a biotechnology company that designs, manufactures, and markets sequencing systems to help scientists resolve genetically complex problems. While PacBio has not been directly bought by a Chinese investor or company, it did receive a major investment in 2018 from a global consortium that included China’s Legend Capital.

This investment reflects China’s strategic drive to enhance its capabilities in the burgeoning field of biotechnology. Investments in companies like PacBio allow Chinese investors to gain access to advanced genomic technologies, which are expected to play a key role in the future of medical diagnosis and treatment, both in China and globally.

Headquarters: Waterbury, Vermont
Bought By: JAB Holding Company
Headquarters: Luxembourg

Nestled within the rolling hills of Vermont, Keurig Green Mountain has long been a staple of American mornings. Famous for its revolutionary single-serve coffee makers and diverse range of flavors, Keurig has reshaped the way many Americans enjoy their daily brew.

However, unbeknownst to many, in 2016, Keurig Green Mountain was acquired by JAB Holding Company, a German conglomerate with a robust portfolio in the consumer goods sector. The acquisition, valued at a staggering $13.9 billion, seamlessly added Keurig to a family of brands that includes Peet’s Coffee & Tea and Caribou Coffee.

Headquarters: Greeley, Colorado
Bought By: JBS S.A.
Headquarters: São Paulo, Brazil

For many, JBS USA represents a titan within the realm of protein-based foods. Originating in the American Midwest, JBS USA has gained significant traction over the years, now standing as one of the country’s foremost processors of beef, pork, and lamb. Their reach even extends to poultry through the Pilgrim’s brand.

However, a detail often overlooked is that JBS USA is a subsidiary of JBS S.A., a Brazilian company and the world’s largest processor of fresh beef and pork. The Brazilian behemoth acquired a majority stake in Swift & Company, a predecessor to JBS USA, in 2007 for a sum of $1.4 billion.