The ABB story
ABB was formed in 1988 when Sweden's ASEA, founded in 1883, merged with Switzerland's Brown, Boveri & Cie, founded in 1891. Both had been pioneers in electrical engineering. ABB became a leader in power and automation technologies.
What makes ABB powerful
ABB is a European leader in electrification and automation. It makes motors, drives, robots and electrical equipment, and its technology is central to the energy transition, including electric vehicle charging and efficient motors.
ABB today
ABB Ltd is listed in Switzerland and Sweden, and is based in Zurich. Morten Wierod became chief executive in 2024. ABB sold its power grids business to Hitachi and has announced the sale of its robotics division.
What comes next for ABB
ABB's road ahead is about growing in electrification and automation, helped by investment in data centres and the energy transition.
Why ABB ranks #71
Product, Innovation & Delivery (72.0) and Sustainability, Governance & ESG (72.0) carry ABB's Power Score of 67.96.
Brand Positioning & Recall at 62.0. What would move it: Sharper, more consistent brand communication and wider unaided recall outside its home markets.
Pillar profile
Versus its nearest rivals
7 Industrials & Engineering brands are in the Europe 100. ABB is #7 in its sector.
Questions people ask
What rank is ABB in WCRC's Europe's Most Powerful 100 Brands 2026?
ABB ranks #71 of 100 in Europe's Most Powerful 100 Brands 2026, with a WCRC Power Score of 67.96 out of 100.
When was ABB founded and who founded it?
ABB was founded in 1988 (ASEA 1883 and Brown, Boveri & Cie 1891). Founder(s): Merger of ASEA and Brown, Boveri & Cie.
What is ABB's weakest area?
In the 2026 assessment, ABB's lowest pillar is Brand Positioning & Recall at 62.0 out of 100.
Who leads ABB today?
Morten Wierod, CEO. The brand is owned by ABB Ltd.
Where is ABB headquartered?
ABB is based in Zurich, Switzerland. Its country of origin is Switzerland.
What is ABB's revenue?
US$33.2bn revenues (FY2025, +9%), according to the company's published results.
What is a signature fact about ABB?
ABB was formed in 1988 by merging Sweden's ASEA and Switzerland's Brown, Boveri & Cie.
Key facts
| Brand | ABB |
|---|---|
| Company / owner | ABB Ltd |
| Headquarters | Zurich, Switzerland |
| Founded | 1988 (ASEA 1883 and Brown, Boveri & Cie 1891) |
| Founder(s) | Merger of ASEA and Brown, Boveri & Cie |
| Leadership | Morten Wierod, CEO |
| Latest revenue | US$33.2bn revenues (FY2025, +9%) Source |
| Sector | Industrials & Engineering |
| Country of origin | Switzerland |
| Signature fact | ABB was formed in 1988 by merging Sweden's ASEA and Switzerland's Brown, Boveri & Cie. |
| Official website | abb.com |
ABB is ranked #71 in WCRC's Europe's Most Powerful 100 Brands 2026 (Power Score 67.96).