The deal includes specific details and the company plans to use the deal to achieve its future objectives.
Chinese sportswear giant Anta Sports Products Limited has agreed to buy a 29.06% equity stake in Puma SE for about €1.5 billion ($1.8 billion) in cash. The purchase comes through a share purchase agreement with Groupe Artémis, the investment company controlled by the Pinault family. Anta will become Puma’s biggest shareholder after the deal is complete.
The deal is subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions, and it is expected to be finalized by the end of 2026. Anta plans to finance the transaction entirely through its internal cash resources, reflecting confidence in its financial strength and long-term strategy.
Why This Matters for Anta
The acquisition represents a significant achievement for Anta because it serves as the core element of its international expansion strategy which focuses on developing multiple brands through one dedicated business operation. The board chairman of Anta Ding Shizhong described Puma as an important global brand which both companies would work to develop while keeping Pumas operational independence.
Anta controls a range of famous international brands which include FILA DESCENTE KOLON SPORT MAIA ACTIVE and JACK WOLFSKIN and holds the most shares in Amer Sports which owns Arc’teryx Salomon and Wilson. The company has been expanding into key markets in Africa Europe Southeast Asia North America and the Middle East.
Puma’s Market Position and Anta’s Plans
Puma has been a worldwide sportswear brand for more than 75 years while providing sportswear products for football, running, training, basketball, golf, and motorsports. The company distributes its products to more than 120 countries. The acquisition will help Puma expand its business operations in China and other markets where Anta maintains a strong presence.
Anta plans to establish a partnership with Puma which will allow them to participate in Puma’s Supervisory Board while maintaining full control over their brand and governance. Anta currently does not intend to make a complete takeover bid.
Market Reaction
The news led to a rapid increase in Puma shares because investors believed the strategic partnership would create business opportunities. The purchase price showed a major increase above Puma’s share value from the time before the announcement according to analysts.
The partnership between the Chinese company and the German brand marks a major transformation of the worldwide sportswear market because both organizations seek to expand their international presence.
