Who makes Briggs and Stratton generators is a question with a story behind it, since the brand is now owned by KPS Capital Partners after a 2020 bankruptcy sale.
Briggs and Stratton generators are known for offering both portable and home standby models, backed by the company’s century long engine manufacturing heritage.
Founded in 1908 and headquartered in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, Briggs and Stratton filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in July 2020 before KPS Capital Partners acquired its assets for about 550 million dollars.
Knowing who makes Briggs and Stratton generators helps buyers understand how the brand rebuilt itself under new private equity ownership.
This guide covers Briggs and Stratton’s ownership, where the generators are manufactured, the bankruptcy and sale, and how the brand compares to Cummins generators.
So let’s get started.
Table of Contents
Who Makes Briggs and Stratton Generators and Who Owns the Brand?
Briggs and Stratton generators are made by Briggs & Stratton Corporation, now owned by KPS Capital Partners, with the current lineup shown on the Briggs and Stratton official generators page.
KPS Capital Partners, a New York based private equity firm, acquired Briggs and Stratton’s assets in September 2020 after the company’s Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing.
The company remains headquartered in Wauwatosa, Wisconsin, and continues operating under the Briggs & Stratton name.
Since taking ownership, KPS has steered Briggs and Stratton toward high demand products including standby generators and home energy storage.
Where Are Briggs and Stratton Generators Manufactured?
Briggs and Stratton generators are manufactured mainly in the United States, with additional production in China, Europe, and Brazil.
According to SlashGear’s report on Briggs and Stratton’s ownership and manufacturing, the company moved its Vanguard V-twin engine production from a Japanese joint venture to Alabama and Georgia plants in 2019.
This shift toward US based production has continued under KPS Capital Partners’ ownership.
KPS has invested specifically in expanding Briggs and Stratton’s American manufacturing capacity for standby generator production.
What Happened During the Briggs and Stratton Bankruptcy?
Briggs and Stratton filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in July 2020 after more than 90 years as a publicly traded company on the New York Stock Exchange.
KPS Capital Partners purchased the company’s assets for approximately 550 million dollars, wiping away nearly 900 million dollars in debt.
The sale effectively reset Briggs and Stratton as a privately held business under new leadership.
In 2021, the company acquired SimpliPhi Power, a California battery systems manufacturer, rebranding its standby power unit as Energy Solutions.
How Does Briggs and Stratton Compare to Cummins Generators?
Briggs and Stratton and Cummins both compete heavily in the home standby generator segment.
Briggs and Stratton offers a broader range of portable generators alongside its standby lineup.
Cummins brings decades of diesel engine expertise to its Onan branded generator lineup.
Buyers seeking home standby power often compare both brands directly against Generac and Kohler as well.
Are Briggs and Stratton Generators a Good Value?
Briggs and Stratton generators are generally well regarded, offering mid range pricing between budget and premium brands.
Owner reviews frequently note Briggs and Stratton generators as a solid step up from Champion at a similar price point.
The brand’s decades of engine manufacturing experience contribute to durable, dependable performance.
For buyers seeking a well established American brand with a long history, Briggs and Stratton remains a strong choice.
Where Can You Buy a Briggs and Stratton Generator?
Briggs and Stratton generators are sold through major home improvement retailers and outdoor power equipment dealers across the United States.
The company’s website includes a dealer locator to help buyers find authorized sellers nearby.
Home standby models typically require professional installation through an authorized Briggs and Stratton dealer.
Shoppers comparing home standby generator brands may also want to read Who Makes Cummins Generators and Who Makes Generac Generators.
Frequently Asked Questions About Briggs and Stratton Generators
Who owns Briggs and Stratton now?
Briggs and Stratton is owned by KPS Capital Partners, which acquired the company after its 2020 bankruptcy.
Why did Briggs and Stratton go bankrupt?
Briggs and Stratton filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in July 2020 due to significant debt and operational challenges.
Are Briggs and Stratton generators made in the USA?
Yes, most Briggs and Stratton generators are manufactured in the United States, with some overseas production as well.
Are Briggs and Stratton generators good?
Yes, Briggs and Stratton generators are generally well regarded for their durability and American manufacturing.
I am Jack Neel, a mechanical engineer, researcher, and writer. I created this website to share my knowledge about different brands and products with you. I research the manufacturers behind the brands and provide you with the information you need to make smart buying decisions.