ANTA Sports Completes EUR 1.5bn Acquisition to Become PUMA’s Largest Shareholder

Chinese multi-brand sportswear giant ANTA Sports Products Limited has officially completed its acquisition of a 29.06 per cent stake in PUMA SE from Artémis SAS, the investment holding company of the Pinault family, for EURO1,505.5 million (AUD2,421.52 million) in cash.

Following receipt of all regulatory approvals and fulfilment of closing conditions, the transaction establishes ANTA Sports as PUMA’s largest shareholder, marking a major milestone in the Hong Kong-listed group’s global expansion strategy.

The alliance aims to unlock PUMA’s commercial potential across international markets, including China, by leveraging ANTA’s extensive multi-brand retail and operational expertise while fully respecting PUMA’s independent governance and brand heritage.

ANTA board chairman, Ding Shizhong, emphasised the long-term commercial vision driving the investment.

“We are delighted to become PUMA’s largest shareholder and a long-term strategic partner.”

“The global sporting goods market continues to offer significant growth opportunities as more people embrace active lifestyles and increase their participation in sports.

“ANTA Sports has built its success on a multi-brand strategy.

“We believe the value of a multi-brand group lies in helping each brand realize its full potential by leveraging the capabilities and resources of the broader group.

“PUMA has a rich heritage and strong underlying brand value.

“We have confidence in its management team and support the strategic transformation currently underway.

“As a long-term shareholder, we look forward to sharing our experience and capabilities, particularly in retail and operations, while respecting PUMA’s independence and brand identity.

“Our ambition is to support PUMA in realizing its full potential and creating lasting value for consumers around the world,” Ding said.

PUMA leadership welcomed the multibillion-dollar transaction as a vital endorsement of the brand’s ongoing strategic turnaround.

CEO of PUMA SE, Arthur Hoeld, noted the alignment between both corporate entities.

“PUMA has built one of the most recognized sports brands in the world, with a rich heritage, a deep sports credibility, a global footprint, leading innovations and strong partners.”

“We welcome ANTA Sports as PUMA’s largest shareholder and view its long-term commitment as a strong vote of confidence in our strategy, our management team and our future.”

“We look forward to building a fruitful partnership and exploring areas where our respective strengths can create sustainable value for PUMA and its shareholders on our journey to become a top 3 global sports brand,” Hoeld said.

ANTA Sports has confirmed it will seek adequate representation on PUMA’s Supervisory Board but currently holds no plans to launch a full takeover offer, ensuring PUMA retains its distinctive brand identity and corporate autonomy moving forward.

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