BMW Establishes North American Presence in 1975
SHERIDAN, WYOMING – January 27, 2025 – SHERIDAN, WYOMING – Jan. 27, 2025 – BMW's journey in North America began in earnest in 1975, a pivotal year that saw the establishment of BMW of North America. This move marked a significant step in the company's global expansion and set the stage for its future success in the U.S. market.
The End of the Hoffman Era
Prior to 1975, BMW's presence in the U.S. was largely managed by Max Hoffman, an independent distributor. However, Bob Lutz, a member of BMW's board of management, recognized the need for greater control over the brand's image and operations. Lutz aimed to unify advertising, brand management, and customer service, which were inconsistent under Hoffman's leadership.