Lego, one of the most iconic toy brands in the world, is owned by Kirkbi A/S, a private investment and holding company controlled by the Kirk Kristiansen family. This Danish family has owned Lego since its inception, maintaining control through Kirkbi, which holds a 75% stake in the Lego Group. The remaining 25% is owned by the Lego Foundation, also controlled by the family. As you already know who owns Lego, let’s dive in to more details of the company’s ownership.
Brief Overview of the Lego Group
The Lego Group is a globally recognized toy company, renowned for its interlocking plastic bricks that can be assembled into various structures. Founded in 1932 by Ole Kirk Christiansen in Billund, Denmark, Lego has grown into a billion-dollar enterprise with a vast range of products, from simple bricks to advanced robotics kits. The company’s name is derived from the Danish words “leg godt,” meaning “play well,” which reflects its mission to inspire creativity and learning through play.
Lego’s journey began as a small carpentry workshop in Billund, Denmark. Ole Kirk Christiansen initially produced wooden toys, but in 1949, the company introduced the first plastic interlocking bricks. These bricks laid the foundation for the modern Lego we know today.
Ownership of Lego has always remained within the Christiansen family. After Ole Kirk, his son, Godtfred Kirk Christiansen, took over the company. Under Godtfred’s leadership, Lego expanded rapidly, establishing itself as a global brand. The family’s commitment to keeping the company private has allowed them to maintain control and uphold their vision for the brand.
Who Owns Lego: The Role of Kirkbi
As we answered the question who owns Lego above, want to add that Kirkbi A/S plays a central role in Lego’s ownership and management. Founded by the Kirk Kristiansen family, Kirkbi is the primary holding company for the family’s assets, including their stake in the Lego Group. Kirkbi’s ownership structure ensures that the family retains majority control over Lego, allowing them to steer the company according to their long-term vision.
Kirkbi also manages other investments, including real estate and renewable energy projects. However, its primary focus remains on Lego, ensuring the brand continues to innovate and grow while staying true to its core values.
The company’s structure includes a family-owned foundation, the Lego Foundation, which owns 25% of the Lego Group. The foundation’s mission is to promote learning through play and support educational initiatives worldwide. This ownership model not only ensures the family’s control but also aligns with their philanthropic goals.
Lego’s Impact on the Toy Industry
Lego’s influence on the toy industry is immense. Since the introduction of its interlocking bricks, Lego has become synonymous with creativity, education, and innovation. The company has consistently adapted to changes in the market, expanding its product line to include themed sets, movies, video games, and even amusement parks.
Lego’s commitment to quality and innovation has set it apart from competitors. The company’s products are known for their durability and educational value, making them a favourite among children and adults alike. Lego has also embraced technology, introducing products like Lego Mindstorms and Lego Boost, which integrate coding and robotics, keeping the brand relevant in the digital age.
Moreover, Lego’s impact extends beyond toys. The brand has become a cultural phenomenon, with a dedicated fan base and a strong presence in pop culture. From blockbuster movies like “The Lego Movie” to collaborations with major franchises like Star Wars and Harry Potter, Lego has cemented its place as a leader in both the toy and entertainment industries.
Who owns Lego: the Future
Looking ahead, the future of Lego appears promising. The company continues to innovate, focusing on sustainability and digitalization. Lego has committed to producing all of its products from sustainable materials by 2030, reflecting its dedication to environmental responsibility.
Digitalization is another key focus. With the rise of online gaming and digital play, Lego is exploring new ways to integrate physical and digital play experiences. Products like Lego Super Mario and Lego Vidiyo exemplify this approach, combining traditional Lego building with interactive digital elements.
Kirkbi’s continued ownership ensures that Lego will remain under the guidance of the Kirk Kristiansen family, allowing them to preserve the brand’s legacy while steering it toward future success. As Lego evolves, it remains committed to its core values of creativity, learning, and quality, ensuring that it continues to inspire and delight generations to come.
Reference:
- https://www.lego.com/en-us/aboutus/lego-group/our-ownership).?locale=en-us&age-gate=grown_up
- https://www.kirkbi.com/our-activities/investments
- https://www.lego.com/en-us/aboutus/news/2021/march/lego-vidiyo-launch?locale=en-us&age-gate=grown_up
