Leica was founded in 1869 by Ernst Leitz in Wetzlar, Germany. 4 different companies are currently using the Leica brand: Leica Microsystems, Leica Biosystems, Leica Geosystems, and Leica Camera AG.

For most of the consumers, Leica is famous for its high quality camera and lenses. 45% of Leica Camera AG is currently owned by The Blackstone Group based in NYC, which is the largest alternative investment firm in the world.