Chinese sportswear group ANTA Sports Products Limited has completed the acquisition of a 29.06% stake in PUMA SE from Artémis SAS for €1.5055 billion, making ANTA the German sportswear brand’s largest shareholder.
The transaction, acquired from the investment holding company of the Pinault family, was completed after all required regulatory approvals were secured and closing conditions were fulfilled.
The investment represents a major step in ANTA Sports’ global expansion strategy, while creating a potential platform to strengthen PUMA’s commercial position across international markets, including China.
ANTA brings multi-brand expertise to PUMA
ANTA Sports chairman Ding Shizhong described the investment as a long-term strategic partnership rather than a short-term financial move.
Shizhong said ANTA intends to leverage its experience in multi-brand retail and operations to support PUMA’s international growth while preserving the German brand’s independent management structure and identity.
He also expressed confidence in PUMA’s management team and the strategic transformation currently underway, highlighting the brand’s heritage and underlying global value.
ANTA has confirmed that it will seek appropriate representation on PUMA’s Supervisory Board. However, the company currently has no plans to launch a full takeover offer, leaving PUMA’s corporate autonomy and distinctive brand identity intact.
Strategic backing for PUMA’s transformation
PUMA CEO Arthur Hoeld welcomed ANTA’s investment as a strong endorsement of the company’s ongoing strategic transformation.
Hoeld highlighted PUMA’s brand heritage, sporting credibility, global footprint and innovation capabilities, while saying the two companies would explore areas where their respective strengths could create sustainable value for PUMA and its shareholders.
PUMA continues to target a position among the world’s top three sports brands.
New opportunities in China
The transaction could also strengthen PUMA’s commercial opportunities in China and across Asia.
ANTA’s experience in retail, distribution and multi-brand sportswear operations provides a potential platform for PUMA to expand its reach in the Chinese market, while the investment gives ANTA greater exposure to one of the world’s most established global sports brands.
The €1.5 billion transaction significantly reshapes PUMA’s shareholder structure, with ANTA taking a major strategic position while committing to preserve the company’s independence and brand identity.