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Chinese sportswear conglomerate Anta Sports announced on Tuesday that it acquired a 29% stake in German athletic brand Puma for €1.51 billion ($1.79 billion), the company announced on Tuesday.
After the announcement, Puma shares listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange jumped over 20% at the session open, rising above €25 before retreating to €23.
The deal involves the purchase of 43 million shares at €35 apiece from the Artemis Group, representing a premium of more than 60% over Puma’s last closing price at €21, the investment firm controlled by France’s Pinault family.
In a statement to the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, Anta emphasized that it has no current plans to pursue a full acquisition of Puma but noted that it would "carefully assess the possibility of further deepening the partnership between the two parties in the future."
The company said the investment would "further enhance its presence and brand recognition in the global sporting goods market," with a particular focus on China.
Founded in 1948, Puma remains one of Germany’s most recognizable athletic brands. However, the company has faced weakening demand in recent quarters, reporting a sales decline of over 15% in the third quarter of 2025 to €1.96 billion. Its total revenue for the year is expected to edge down slightly to $9.48 billion.
Arthur Hoeld, who became CEO in 2023, previously stated that the brand would undergo a restructuring process to improve its perception in global markets and revive growth.
Headquartered in Fujian province in southeastern China, Anta is one of the world’s largest sportswear companies. In recent years, it has expanded internationally, most notably through its $5.2 billion acquisition of Finland-based Amer Sports in 2019, adding brands such as Wilson, Arc'teryx, and Salomon to its portfolio.
Anta also holds the rights to distribute and market international brands, including Fila and Descente, within China, giving the company a strong position in one of the world’s largest consumer markets.
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