Pioneer was founded in 1938 in Tokyo, Japan by Nozomu Matsumoto - a man with a passion for music that he hoped to share with the world through high quality audio speakers. That passion began with a small operation to repair and manufacture speakers in Matsumoto's garage. It has since grown to international stature as a manufacturer of audio and video products for use at home, in the car and in business environments.
Today Pioneer is a world leader in electronics products for the car, home and business markets, respected for their role in introducing such innovations as consumer laser disc (1979), car CD player (1984), GPS car navigation (1990), DVD-Video player (1996), high definition plasma display (1997) and organic electroluminescent (OEL) display (1997). To this day, Pioneer still develops and manufactures innovative and high-tech entertainment and electronic products.
As they move further into the 21st century, the environment of the electronics industry is changing rapidly. In the midst of such change, even more foresight and flexibility are required, particularly in research and development. R&D has been crucial to Pioneer's growth, creativity and leadership. With seven percent of revenues invested back into R&D, they continue to develop imaginative products that best fit the lifestyle of the new century.