Chinese entities are acquiring Jack Wolfskin for a staggering 290 million euros.

German Outdoor Clothing Manufacturer Jack Wolfskin Sold to Anta Sports

In a significant move for the sportswear industry, Jack Wolfskin, a renowned German outdoor clothing manufacturer, has been sold to Anta Sports for $290 million (€263 million). The sale was announced on Thursday, marking a change in ownership for the Idstein-based company.

Jack Wolfskin, known for its high-quality outdoor gear, is expected to generate €325 million in sales for the current year, employing around 1,500 people. The company has had a turbulent history, including being acquired by Blackstone for €700 million in 2011, failing in its expansion into foreign markets, and being passed on to a group of hedge funds and then to Callaway Golf Company in 2019.

Anta Sports, a Hong Kong-based sportswear conglomerate, plans to expand its outdoor segment with the acquisition of Jack Wolfskin. The company is internationally known mainly through its subsidiary Amer Sports, which includes brands such as Atomic, Salomon, Wilson, Peak Performance, Arcteryx, and others.

The integration of Jack Wolfskin is a step in Anta Sports' global expansion strategy. Synergies can be achieved in Jack Wolfskin's supply chain, product development, and retail, which Anta Sports hopes will bolster its position in the outdoor market.

Two-thirds of Jack Wolfskin's sales are traditionally generated in the second half of the year. For the current year, the company is expected to have an operating profit (EBITDA) of €12 million. Topgolf Callaway Brands, the group of hedge funds that took over Jack Wolfskin from Blackstone in 2019, paid around €418 million for the company in 2018.

Anta Sports, known for being a conglomerate in the sportswear industry, entered Amer Sports as part of a consortium in 2019. With the acquisition of Jack Wolfskin, Anta Sports continues to expand its portfolio and strengthen its presence in the global market.

The sale of Jack Wolfskin marks a new chapter for the German outdoor clothing manufacturer. As Anta Sports takes over, Jack Wolfskin remains committed to delivering high-quality outdoor gear to its customers and continues to focus on its core business.

Chinese entities are acquiring Jack Wolfskin for a staggering 290 million euros.