Textron Inc. is a multi-industry company headquartered in Providence, Rhode Island, USA. It was founded in 1923 as the Special Yarns Company by Royal Little. In 1934, the company changed its name to Textron, a contraction of "Textile Engineering Company," to reflect its diversification into various industries beyond textiles.
Textron operates in several business segments, including Aerospace, Bell, Textron Systems, Industrial, and Finance. The Aerospace segment encompasses Textron Aviation, which manufactures and sells general aviation aircraft like Cessna and Beechcraft, and also Textron Aviation Defense, which focuses on military aircraft. The Bell segment is responsible for the production of military and commercial helicopters. Textron Systems develops advanced technologies for defense, aerospace, and industrial markets. The Industrial segment consists of various brands, including E-Z-GO, Jacobsen, Cushman, and Arctic Cat, offering specialized vehicles and equipment for diverse applications. Textron Financial Corporation provides financial services, including retail financing and leasing solutions.
Over the years, Textron has expanded through acquisitions and strategic partnerships to strengthen its position in various markets. Notably, the company acquired Bell Helicopter in 1960, further solidifying its presence in the aerospace industry. Textron has a history of innovation and has received numerous awards and recognitions for its products and technologies.