Top 19 Outdoor Footwear Investors in Europe
Top 19 Outdoor Footwear Investors in Europe
The outdoor footwear industry in Europe has evolved into a vibrant sector that caters to outdoor enthusiasts and fashion-conscious consumers alike. This industry features a blend of established brands and emerging startups, producing footwear designed for hiking, trekking, and various adventure sports, while prioritizing comfort and durability. The growing emphasis on sustainability is stimulating innovation, pushing companies to explore eco-friendly materials and practices. With increasing consumer interest in outdoor activities and travel, analysts predict steady growth and an expanding market presence for outdoor footwear manufacturers in the coming years, enhancing the variety and availability of products.
The featured investors in this article represent a mix of corporate venture capital, private equity, and traditional venture firms, headquartered mainly in major cities like Paris, London, and Stockholm. Ranging from small firms with few employees to corporate giants with over 10,000 staff, these investors have each engaged in numerous transactions related to outdoor footwear in 2024. Their diverse investment strategies highlight a proactive approach, with some focusing on early-stage startups and others acquiring established brands, thereby shaping the trajectory of innovation and growth in the outdoor footwear sector.
Top 19 Outdoor Footwear Investors in Europe
1. Crowdcube
- Website: crowdcube.com
- Type: Corporate
- Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
- Founded year: 2010
- Headcount: 51-200
- Number of deals in 2024: 3
- LinkedIn: crowdcube-limited
Crowdcube is a crowdfunding platform based in London, England, that enables businesses to raise capital through equity investments. Founded in 2010, it connects startups and SMEs with potential investors, facilitating the funding process. Crowdcube promotes diversity and inclusion within its workforce while providing investment management services to its clients. Notably, Crowdcube has been involved in several transactions within the outdoor sector, including Alpkit, a specialist retailer of outdoor clothing and equipment, which raised £2.25m to expand its operations. Additionally, Crowdcube facilitated funding for Planks Clothing, which has raised significant amounts in equity crowdfunding, indicating its active role in supporting brands that may also offer outdoor footwear. These transactions highlight Crowdcube's engagement with the outdoor industry, making it a relevant player in the outdoor footwear investment landscape.
2. Frasers Group
- Website: frasers.group
- Type: Corporate
- Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
- Founded year: 1982
- Headcount: 10001+
- Number of deals in 2024: 20
- LinkedIn: frasers-group
Frasers Group plc is a corporate investor based in London, England, founded in 1982. The company operates various brands in the sports and fashion sectors, including Sports Direct and Jack Wills, and offers a wide range of products such as clothing, footwear, and sporting goods. Frasers Group has made several strategic acquisitions that enhance its presence in the outdoor footwear market. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Karrimor in 2004, a brand recognized for its outdoor footwear and equipment, and Field & Trek.Com Ltd in 2007, which specializes in outdoor gear. In 2017, Frasers Group further expanded its portfolio by acquiring Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS), a brand that also focuses on outdoor apparel and footwear. Most recently, in 2024, Frasers Group acquired Twinsport, which may also contribute to its outdoor offerings. These acquisitions demonstrate Frasers Group's commitment to the outdoor footwear sector, making it a significant player in this market.
3. JD Sports
- Website: jdsports.co.uk
- Type: Corporate
- Headquarters: United Kingdom (UK)
- Founded year: 1981
- Headcount: 10001+
- Number of deals in 2024: 1
- LinkedIn: jdsports
JD Sports is a retail company specializing in sports and lifestyle apparel and footwear, founded in 1981 and based in the United Kingdom. With over 10,000 employees, JD Sports operates both online and through physical stores, providing a comprehensive shopping experience. The company has made significant strides in the outdoor footwear market through strategic acquisitions, including Go Outdoors for £112.3 million in 2016, which bolstered its outdoor clothing presence. In 2012, JD Sports acquired Blacks Outdoor, further solidifying its footprint in the outdoor sector. Additionally, the acquisition of Tiso Group in 2013 allowed JD Sports to expand its offerings in outdoor retail, including brands like Alpine Bikes and George Fisher. These transactions highlight JD Sports' commitment to the outdoor footwear industry, complementing its broader portfolio of sports and lifestyle products.
4. Bpifrance French Tech Accélération
- Website: bpifrance.com
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
- Founded year: 2015
- Headcount: 1-10
- Number of deals in 2024: 198
- LinkedIn: bpifrance-french-tech-acc%c3%a9l%c3%a9ration
Bpifrance French Tech Accélération is a venture capital investor based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, founded in 2015. As a public entity and financial institution, Bpifrance supports entrepreneurs and businesses in France and internationally through a range of services, including direct funding and private equity investments. They aim to foster entrepreneurship and innovation, helping businesses navigate growth and international expansion. Notably, Bpifrance has been involved in several transactions relevant to the outdoor footwear industry, including a significant investment in i-Run, a sports shoe and apparel retailer, which raised 100 million euros to expand its network and product lines. Additionally, they participated in funding for Snowleader, which focuses on outdoor gear. These transactions highlight Bpifrance's commitment to supporting businesses within the outdoor footwear sector.
5. Lvmh
- Website: lvmh.com
- Type: Corporate
- Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
- Founded year: 1987
- Headcount: 10001+
- Number of deals in 2024: 11
- LinkedIn: lvmh
LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE is a luxury goods manufacturer and retailer based in Paris, France, known for its diverse range of high-quality products across various sectors, including fashion, leather goods, wines, spirits, perfumes, cosmetics, watches, and jewelry. As an investor, LVMH has made strategic acquisitions to strengthen its presence in the footwear market. Notably, in March 2021, LVMH acquired a majority stake in Birkenstock for approximately £3.5 billion, signaling a shift towards comfort-focused footwear, which is often associated with outdoor activities. Additionally, LVMH's investment in Giuseppe Zanotti, where they acquired a 30% stake, further demonstrates their commitment to the footwear industry. These transactions reflect LVMH's strategy to enhance its portfolio with brands that cater to both luxury and outdoor footwear markets.
6. 3i Group plc
- Website: 3i.com
- Type: Private Equity
- Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
- Founded year: 1945
- Headcount: 201-500
- Number of deals in 2024: 3
- LinkedIn: 3i-group-plc
3i Group plc is a London-based private equity firm founded in 1945, specializing in private equity and infrastructure investments. The firm focuses on providing capital and expertise to mid-market companies, helping them grow sustainably. With a strong international presence and a diverse portfolio, 3i Group aims to create value for its stakeholders through strategic investments. Among their notable transactions, 3i Group acquired a significant minority stake in GO Outdoors for £28 million in 2011, supporting the company's expansion plans in the outdoor retail sector. They also acquired Rohan Designs in 1991, a company known for its outdoor clothing and accessories, further emphasizing their involvement in the outdoor market. Additionally, their investment in Halti Oy, a Finnish outdoor clothing brand, showcases their interest in companies that cater to outdoor enthusiasts. These transactions highlight 3i Group's commitment to the outdoor footwear and apparel industry, making them a relevant investor in this category.
7. Permira
- Website: permira.com
- Type: Private Equity
- Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
- Founded year: 1985
- Headcount: 501-1000
- Number of deals in 2024: 8
- LinkedIn: permira
Permira is a London-based private equity firm founded in 1985, specializing in private equity and credit solutions. The firm partners with management teams and entrepreneurs to drive growth and create long-term value across various sectors, including technology, consumer goods, healthcare, and services. Notably, Permira has made significant investments in the footwear industry, including the acquisition of Dr Martens, a British footwear brand, for £300 million in 2013, which has allowed the brand to expand its global presence. Additionally, Permira's recent acquisition of a significant minority stake in K-Way, a French outerwear brand, further demonstrates its commitment to brands that align with outdoor and active lifestyles. These transactions highlight Permira's strategic focus on transforming businesses into market leaders, particularly in sectors that resonate with outdoor enthusiasts.
8. Kima Ventures
- Website: kimaventures.com
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
- Founded year: 2010
- Headcount: 1-10
- Number of deals in 2024: 50
- LinkedIn: kima-ventures
Kima Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, founded in 2010. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage startups across various sectors, backing two startups per week with financial support and mentorship to help them navigate initial challenges and achieve success. Among their notable transactions, Kima Ventures invested in HARDLOOP, a French outdoor sports e-tailer that raised €3 million in January 2022, focusing on environmentally and socially responsible products. They also participated in earlier funding rounds for HARDLOOP, including a Pre-Seed round in 2016. Additionally, Kima Ventures invested in Barooders, a used-sporting-goods marketplace, which aligns with the outdoor and sporting goods sector. These transactions highlight Kima Ventures' engagement in the outdoor industry, making them a relevant player in the outdoor footwear investment landscape.
9. Bgf
- Website: bgf.co.uk
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
- Founded year: 2011
- Headcount: 51-200
- Number of deals in 2024: 53
- LinkedIn: bgfinvestments
BGF Investment Management Limited is a venture capital firm based in London, England, founded in 2011. The firm specializes in providing growth funding and value creation support to small and mid-sized businesses across the UK and Ireland. BGF addresses the funding gap in the market through minority investments and extensive support services. Notably, BGF has invested in several companies within the footwear sector, including a £3.5 million investment in Moda in Pelle, aimed at expanding their footwear stores and enhancing their online presence. They also invested £3.75 million in Oliver Sweeney, which is focused on developing a new marketing strategy and licensing channels. These transactions highlight BGF's commitment to supporting businesses in the footwear industry, making them a relevant player in the outdoor footwear market.
10. Bunzl UK and Ireland
- Website: bunzl.com
- Type: Corporate
- Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
- Founded year: 1854
- Headcount: 1001-5000
- Number of deals in 2024: 5
- LinkedIn: bunzl
Bunzl UK and Ireland is a corporate investor based in London, England, and is part of Bunzl Public Limited Company, which was founded in 1854. The company specializes in distribution and outsourcing, providing essential items necessary for businesses to operate across various sectors. In recent years, Bunzl has made several strategic acquisitions to enhance its market presence. Notably, in January 2023, Bunzl acquired VM Footwear, a move that highlights its commitment to the footwear industry. This acquisition is significant as it expands Bunzl's portfolio into outdoor and protective footwear, complementing its existing offerings. Additionally, Bunzl has a history of acquiring companies in related sectors, such as Tingley Rubber Corporation, which focuses on personal protective equipment, and Bodyguard Workwear, a distributor of safety workwear. These transactions reflect Bunzl's strategy to diversify its product range and strengthen its distribution capabilities across various industries, including outdoor footwear.
11. Verdane
- Website: verdane.com
- Type: Private Equity
- Headquarters: Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Founded year: 1985
- Headcount: 51-200
- Number of deals in 2024: 7
- LinkedIn: verdane-capital
Verdane is a private equity investment firm based in Oslo, Norway, founded in 1985. The firm specializes in growth equity investments, particularly in technology-enabled companies, and provides capital and hands-on support to help businesses scale. Verdane's investment strategy is aligned with trends in digitalization and decarbonization. Notably, Verdane has made significant investments in the outdoor sector, including the acquisition of Silva, a company that provides niche outdoor sports equipment, and Maskinklippet.se, which aims to create a leading Nordic e-tailer in forestry, gardening, hunting, and outdoor products. These transactions highlight Verdane's commitment to the outdoor industry, making them a relevant player in the outdoor footwear market.
12. Apax
- Website: apax.com
- Type: Private Equity
- Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
- Founded year: 1981
- Headcount: 201-500
- Number of deals in 2024: 8
- LinkedIn: apax-partners
Apax Partners LLP is a private equity firm based in London, England, founded in 1981. The firm specializes in managing investments across various sectors, including technology, internet/consumer, healthcare, and services. Apax collaborates with management teams of high-potential companies to drive growth and innovation, serving institutional investors seeking to enhance their capital through strategic investments in private equity funds. Notably, Apax has made significant acquisitions in the footwear and outdoor apparel sectors, including the acquisition of Cole Haan LLC from NIKE, Inc. for $570 million in 2013, which is a prominent player in the footwear market. Additionally, Apax acquired Spyder Active Sports in 2004, a brand that is associated with outdoor sports, further demonstrating its engagement in the outdoor footwear and apparel industry.
13. Venrex
- Website: venrex.partners
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
- Founded year: 2002
- Headcount: 11-50
- Number of deals in 2024: 11
- LinkedIn: venrex
Venrex is a venture capital firm based in London, England, founded in 2002. The firm specializes in early-stage investments in technology-enabled businesses within consumer industries, providing funding and strategic support to help these businesses grow in competitive markets. Notably, Venrex has invested in Jöttnar, a company that raised funds in 2017 and 2018, focusing on outdoor apparel and footwear, which highlights their engagement in the outdoor footwear sector. Additionally, they have invested in Amphibio, which also operates in the outdoor space, further demonstrating their relevance in this industry. In 2024, Venrex participated in a significant funding round for TALA, showcasing their active role in supporting innovative consumer brands.
14. Ldc
- Website: ldc.co.uk
- Type: Private Equity
- Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
- Founded year: 1981
- Headcount: 51-200
- Number of deals in 2024: 15
- LinkedIn: ldc
Lloyds Development Capital (LDC) is a private equity firm based in London, England, founded in 1981. As part of Lloyds Banking Group, LDC specializes in providing growth capital and strategic support to mid-market businesses across various sectors. They focus on fostering long-term partnerships to drive business success through investment and advisory services. Notably, LDC has invested in Mountain Warehouse, a prominent UK outdoor clothing retailer, acquiring a significant minority stake to support its growth ambitions. This investment aligns with the outdoor footwear market, as Mountain Warehouse offers a range of outdoor gear, including footwear. Additionally, LDC has invested in other brands like Joules Clothing and ZyroFisher, which, while not exclusively focused on footwear, operate within the broader outdoor and sporting goods sectors, further demonstrating their engagement in related markets.
15. Altor Equity Partners
- Website: altor.com
- Type: Private Equity
- Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
- Founded year: 2003
- Headcount: 51-200
- Number of deals in 2024: 6
- LinkedIn: altor
Altor Equity Partners is a private equity investment management firm based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 2003. The firm specializes in providing consulting services across various sectors, including technology and consumer products, with a focus on enhancing operational efficiency and sustainable growth for its partners. Altor has been actively involved in the outdoor footwear and apparel industry, with significant transactions such as the acquisition of Rossignol in 2013, a brand recognized for its outdoor sports products. They also participated in funding rounds for XXL Sport & Villmark, a retailer specializing in outdoor equipment, and Revolution Race, which focuses on outdoor apparel. These investments reflect Altor's commitment to the outdoor lifestyle market, positioning them as a key player in the outdoor footwear sector.
16. Almi
- Website: almi.se
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
- Founded year: 1994
- Headcount: 201-500
- Number of deals in 2024: 7
- LinkedIn: almi-ab
Almi AB is a financial services company based in Stockholm, Sweden, founded in 1994. It specializes in providing loans, risk capital, and business development support to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Sweden, aiming to enhance their growth and competitiveness through tailored financial solutions. Almi has been involved in several transactions, including notable investments in companies like 'No More Boots', which directly relates to the footwear industry. This involvement suggests that Almi is not only focused on traditional sectors but is also exploring opportunities in the outdoor footwear market. Other transactions include investments in companies like Elevenate, a fashion manufacturer, which, while not exclusively footwear, indicates a broader interest in the fashion and apparel sector.
17. Lion Resource Advisors Limited
- Website: lioncapital.com
- Type: Private Equity
- Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
- Founded year: 2004
- Headcount: 1-10
- LinkedIn: lion-resource-advisors-limited
Lion Resource Advisors Limited, also known as Lion Capital, is a private equity investment firm based in London, England, founded in 2004. The firm specializes in consumer brands and provides investment management services aimed at unlocking growth potential through strategic guidance and financial support. Lion Capital manages a diverse portfolio of over 175 brands, primarily focusing on Europe and North America. Notably, they have made significant investments in the outdoor and footwear sectors, including the acquisition of A.S.Adventure in 2007, a retailer known for outdoor gear and apparel, and PittaRosso in 2014, an Italian footwear and accessories retailer. These transactions highlight Lion Capital's commitment to the outdoor footwear market, alongside their broader investment strategy in consumer brands.
18. eEquity
- Website: eequity.se
- Type: Venture Capital
- Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
- Founded year: 2010
- Headcount: 11-50
- LinkedIn: eequity
eEquity is a Stockholm-based venture capital firm founded in 2010, specializing in growth equity investments. The firm focuses on digitally enabled business models primarily in the Nordics, partnering with entrepreneurs in the technology and retail sectors. Notably, eEquity has made investments in companies relevant to the outdoor footwear market, such as PS of Sweden, which raised SEK 50 million to enhance its growth, and Footway, a notable player in the footwear retail space. These transactions highlight eEquity's engagement with the footwear industry, showcasing their capability to support businesses that align with outdoor and retail footwear markets.
19. EQT Group
- Website: eqtgroup.com
- Type: Private Equity
- Headquarters: Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
- Founded year: 1994
- Headcount: 1001-5000
- Number of deals in 2024: 30
- LinkedIn: eqt-partners
EQT Group is a prominent investment firm based in Stockholm, Sweden, specializing in private equity, infrastructure, real estate, growth equity, and venture capital. Founded in 1994, EQT serves institutional investors by providing expertise in managing diverse investment portfolios across multiple sectors and geographies. Notably, EQT has made significant investments in the outdoor footwear context, including the acquisition of Lundhags skomakarna in December 2006, a company known for its outdoor footwear products. Additionally, their investment in XXL Sport & Villmark, a leading sports retail chain in the Nordic region, further emphasizes their involvement in the outdoor and sports sectors. These transactions highlight EQT's commitment to expanding its portfolio in industries related to outdoor activities and footwear.
Outdoor Footwear Insights: Key Investors in Europe
| Investor | Headquarter | Size | Founded | Deals 2024 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crowdcube | London, England, United Kingdom (UK) | 51-200 | 2010 | 3 |
| Frasers Group | London, England, United Kingdom (UK) | 10001+ | 1982 | 20 |
| JD Sports | United Kingdom (UK) | 10001+ | 1981 | 1 |
| Bpifrance French Tech Accélération | Paris, Île-De-France, France | 1-10 | 2015 | 198 |
| Lvmh | Paris, Île-De-France, France | 10001+ | 1987 | 11 |
| 3i Group plc | London, England, United Kingdom (UK) | 201-500 | 1945 | 3 |
| Permira | London, England, United Kingdom (UK) | 501-1000 | 1985 | 8 |
| Kima Ventures | Paris, Île-De-France, France | 1-10 | 2010 | 50 |
| Bgf | London, England, United Kingdom (UK) | 51-200 | 2011 | 53 |
| Bunzl UK and Ireland | London, England, United Kingdom (UK) | 1001-5000 | 1854 | 5 |
| Verdane | Oslo, Oslo, Norway | 51-200 | 1985 | 7 |
| Apax | London, England, United Kingdom (UK) | 201-500 | 1981 | 8 |
| Venrex | London, England, United Kingdom (UK) | 11-50 | 2002 | 11 |
| Ldc | London, England, United Kingdom (UK) | 51-200 | 1981 | 15 |
| Altor Equity Partners | Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden | 51-200 | 2003 | 6 |
| Almi | Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden | 201-500 | 1994 | 7 |
| Lion Resource Advisors Limited | London, England, United Kingdom (UK) | 1-10 | 2004 | 0 |
| eEquity | Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden | 11-50 | 2010 | 0 |
| EQT Group | Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden | 1001-5000 | 1994 | 30 |
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