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Agenda-setting intelligence, analysis and advice for the global fashion community.

Unpacking Birkenstock’s Underwhelming Public Debut

Shares of the L Catterton-owned sandal maker sank on their first day of trading, a bad sign for other brands that are thinking about going public.
Man wearing Birkenstock sandals in hammock.
Birkenstock has collaborated with the likes of Rick Owens, Stüssy and Dior, endlessly iterating on its hero products through partnerships, new materials and colourways. (Birkenstock)

The verdict on Birkenstock’s initial public offering: right company, wrong time.

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Further Reading

How Birkenstock Became a Luxury Target

L Catterton is reportedly the frontrunner to acquire the original anti-fashion shoe brand, which is reaping the rewards of shoppers’ pandemic-driven desire for casual comfort.

About the author
Cathaleen Chen
Cathaleen Chen

Cathaleen Chen is Retail Editor at The Business of Fashion. She is based in New York and drives BoF’s coverage of the retail and direct-to-consumer sectors.

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