The history of Acer: origins, milestones and its 2026 business

Acer was founded in Taiwan on 1 August 1976 as Multitech by Stan Shih and partners, initially distributing electronic components and developing microprocessor-based products.

How Acer developed

The company adopted the Acer name in 1987, expanded internationally in personal computers and later separated much of its contract-manufacturing activity, including the business that became Wistron. Acquisitions such as Gateway and Packard Bell broadened its PC market reach in the 2000s.

Acer in 2026

By 2026, Acer sold notebooks, desktops, monitors, gaming products and other devices while also developing services and newer businesses beyond traditional PCs.

Why the history matters

Acer’s history is part of Taiwan’s rise from electronics manufacturing into globally recognised technology brands, while its later restructuring separated brand ownership from much of the manufacturing function.