From humble beginnings to becoming a pioneer in the off road industry, ARB's journey is marked by innovation and an unwavering commitment to performance
With, on average, 140 years’ 4WDing experience per ARB store, our network harbours both knowledge and passion for the industry. Whether you need to fit out your first fourby, or build your dream custom tourer – at ARB, We Get It!
Over the years, ARB has introduced groundbreaking products like the iconic Bull Bar, BP-51 suspension, Air Lockers, Earth Camper, Altitude Rooftop Tent, Brushless Air Compressors and much more - all designed to elevate the off road experience.
With a legacy built on strength and reliability, ARB has grown alongside the off road community, continuing to engineer high-quality, tough products that help adventurers push the limits of exploration.
From the toughest tracks to the most unforgettable journeys, thank you for making us part of your ride.
It all started when founder Tony Brown returned from a 4x4 trip accross the Top End, frustrated by the lack of durable equipment available
With a vision to create rugged, reliable gear, he began handcrafting bull bars and roof racks in his Melbourne garage and thus, ARB was born.
What started with hand-crafted roof racks and bulls bars quickly grew into a trusted name in the 4x4 community.
ARB's dedication to creating durable, adventure-ready products set the foundation for the brand's journey, leading to its rise as a market leader in aftermarket 4x4 acessories, serving customers worldwide.
From those humble beginnings to becoming a global force in off road innovation, ARB’s journey has been built on passion, progress, and a deep connection with the 4WD community.
Join us as we look back on five decades of milestones, moments, and the gear that’s helped shape adventures around the world!
The 1970s marked the beginning of ARB’s journey, fuelled by a love for the outdoors and a drive to build better gear. What started in a suburban garage quickly grew into something much bigger, as demand for reliable 4WD equipment took off. ARB soon moved into its first factory in Ringwood, marking the shift from backyard builds to serious manufacturing.
These early years were defined by innovation and a deep understanding of what off roaders truly needed. The launch of the first roof rack offered a rugged solution for long-haul travel, while the introduction of the bull bar redefined vehicle protection in remote conditions. With the official formation of ARB Engineering, the business set the stage for a legacy of quality, performance and purpose-built gear.
The 1980s marked a decade of momentum and milestones for ARB. What began as a strong national presence quickly evolved into a leadership position within the Australian 4WD industry. By establishing outlets in every state, ARB made its premium accessories more accessible than ever, supporting a growing community of adventurers who demanded quality and reliability.
But the ambition didn’t stop there. ARB brought breakthrough innovation to the tracks with the launch of the Air Locker, setting a new benchmark for off road traction. The company’s listing on the stock exchange signalled its readiness for bigger moves, paving the way for global expansion. With the acquisition of Old Man Emu and the launch of ARB USA, the brand cemented its position as a trusted force in 4WD across both hemispheres.
The 1990s marked a decade of strategic expansion and product diversification for ARB. With a growing international customer base and a proven track record in innovation, ARB set its sights on strengthening its global presence. The establishment of Air Locker Inc. in Seattle was a key move that deepened ARB’s roots in the U.S. market, ensuring better support, faster distribution, and a stronger connection with off roaders across North America.
Back home, ARB continued to evolve its product range to meet the real-world needs of 4WD enthusiasts. The launch of ARB’s first canopies offered customers a secure and reliable way to store gear on the road, further reinforcing the brand’s commitment to complete, adventure-ready solutions. Whether abroad or in Australia, the 1990s saw ARB build on its foundations with a clear focus on quality, practicality, and global growth.
The 2000s marked a decade of momentum and scale for ARB. As 4WDing gained popularity across the globe, ARB responded with innovation, investment and expansion. From launching the Sahara Bar, designed to balance strength with sleek styling, to acquiring Kingsley Enterprises and distributing Thule products, ARB diversified its offerings while staying true to its off road roots. Every move was driven by a desire to give customers more: more choice, more quality and more ways to get out there.
This era also marked ARB’s transformation into a truly global operation. Manufacturing facilities were established in Thailand, built and managed by ARB to ensure consistent quality and supply. Milestones like the 100,000th Air Locker sold and the introduction of ARB’s own fridge line reinforced the brand’s position as a market leader. By the end of the decade, ARB products were available in over 100 countries, a long way from the small Melbourne garage where it all began.
The 2010s marked a decade of acceleration for ARB, both in product innovation and international growth. From the launch of the Intensity light range to the release of the BP-51 suspension system, ARB continued pushing boundaries in engineering and performance. Expanding into alloy bull bars and acquiring SmartBar reflected a commitment to providing customers with more choice, without compromising safety or durability. Each innovation strengthened ARB’s position as a trusted name for off road reliability.
This decade also saw ARB’s global footprint widen further, with new operations established in Europe and the Middle East, and distribution strengthened across the USA and New Zealand. Back home, ARB celebrated the opening of its 50th retail store and launched a new flagship store program that redefined the in-store experience. Milestones like the sale of the one-millionth bull bar stood as proof of the brand’s enduring reputation, built on trust, performance and a deep connection with the global 4x4 community.
The 2020s have seen ARB continue to evolve and diversify, expanding its product range and reinforcing its global reach. Strategic acquisitions like Pro-Form in New Zealand and Truckman in the UK strengthened ARB’s supply chain and footprint in key international markets. At the same time, landmark product launches such as the Summit MKII Bar and Intensity IQ lights raised the bar for innovation, delivering strength, style, and next-level usability for modern 4WDers.
As the decade progressed, ARB pushed further into new terrain. The Earth Camper marked the brand’s entry into the recreational vehicle space, while the Altitude Rooftop Tent brought automation and luxury to off-grid touring. Continued innovation in suspension and lighting, through the MT64 shocks and investments in NACHO and ORW, reflected ARB’s commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the off-road community. Wherever adventure takes them.
