Laced Up and Locked Down: Skechers Steps Into Private Territory at $9B

In a surprise move driven by trade tensions worldwide, iconic shoemarker Skechers is being taken private by investment giant 3G Capital for $9.4 billion after nearly three decades of being listed in public markets. The transaction, which offers $63 a share-a 30% premium-offers a cash windfall to shareholders when U.S. tariffs against Chinese and Vietnamese imports hold up the profitability of footwear brands. Skechers, the world's third-largest shoe maker with 5,300 global stores, will maintain its founder-led management team and Manhattan Beach headquarters. Economists put the trade war on the pace of the sale as Skechers managed rising costs as well as marketplace volatility. High-profile consumer-oriented transactions stand out for 3G Capital as it tries to drive Skechers' worldwide expansion in its future. The deal is planned to close by Q3 2025.

 

Source: LA Times, CNBC, Economic Times, Bloomberg