Volvo is one of the most visible and famous symbols of Swedish engineering industry. After the recent world economic crisis the Chinese-based Geely Holding Group became the new owner of Volvo Cars. The question is whether the acquisition affects the image of the brand, and if so what is the character of this effect. Thus, this thesis provides the insight in the situation and attempts to give the answer to this question. It identifies the tendencies and provides an example of what changes in the brand image of Volvo have already occurred and what can be expected.Purpose:The purpose of this research is to identify, describe and analyze the effect that the acquisition by Geely Holding Group had on the brand image of Volvo.Method:Within this research a survey was conducted. The issues of concern regarding the change of the Volvo brand image were identified through literature study and observations in the specialized automobile on-line discussion panels. Based on the collected information and theoretical background, a questionnaire was designed and placed in the Volvo discussion forums in three countries – USA, Germany, and Great Britain. The total of 172 responses were received. The obtained data was processed statistically and theoretically on the basis of the theoretical framework.ResultsThe obtained results demonstrate that the brand image has been affected by the acquisition, and the character of this effect varies depending on the aspect of the brand image. Such attributes of Volvo, as safety, quality, and design have been influenced positively, whereas the associations with environment and family are found to be affected in a negative way. The image of a typical Volvo owner has been blurred too.

This research study focuses on the development in media representation of the transaction – Volvo sold to China, from its conception up to finality. Rather than accepting the power of media in the dissemination of information, this study argues that the representation of China in Dagens Industri is deeply rooted in embedded core values, having it known that Volvo is the pride of Sweden. By analyzing the content of the twenty selected articles based on designed categories and their relevance to the period it falls, it is shown how it is possible for embedded core values of Sweden be reinforced by media and shape the representation of China. While the influence of media is perceptible, the analysis of the articles suggests the existence of reference points and the meaning of perceptible faculties only through comparison. Using the theoretical frameworks of orientalism and representation, it was made evident that the negative representation is higher when the dominant motives of media supports and reinforces the embedded Swedish core values.