Golden Goose Gains Blue Pool as Stakeholder in Luxury Sneaker Expansion
Deal News | Jan 28, 2025 | Zawya
Blue Pool, a Hong Kong-based investment firm backed by Alibaba co-founder Joe Tsai, has acquired a 12% stake in the Italian luxury sneaker maker Golden Goose. This strategic move follows Golden Goose's abrupt halt to its plans for a public stock listing in 2022 due to market volatility. Golden Goose, known for its high-end sneakers priced around $600, views the partnership with Blue Pool as an opportunity to leverage the firm's expertise in the sports, entertainment, and consumer sectors, particularly within the Asia Pacific region. Although financial details remain undisclosed, the transaction was finalized following the decision to delay the IPO. Oliver Weisberg, CEO of Blue Pool, will join the board of Golden Goose, while private equity firm Permira will maintain its majority ownership. The luxury brand remains committed to its statement that market conditions must improve before relaunching its IPO.
Sectors
- Luxury Goods
- Private Equity and Investment
- Footwear Industry
Geography
- Italy – Golden Goose is an Italian company based in Venice, specializing in luxury sneakers.
- Hong Kong – Blue Pool, the investment firm acquiring a stake in Golden Goose, is based in Hong Kong.
Industry
- Luxury Goods – Golden Goose operates within the luxury goods market, manufacturing high-end sneakers that retail at premium prices.
- Private Equity and Investment – Blue Pool's acquisition of a stake in Golden Goose highlights activity within the private equity sector, as they invest in promising enterprises.
- Footwear Industry – Golden Goose is a prominent player in the footwear industry, particularly in the luxury sneaker segment.
Financials
- 12% – The percentage stake acquired by Blue Pool in Golden Goose.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Golden Goose | Target Company | Company | An Italian luxury sneaker brand known for its high-end products. |
| Blue Pool Capital | Bidding Company | Company | A Hong Kong-based investment firm backed by Alibaba co-founder Joe Tsai. |
| Joe Tsai | Backer | Person | Co-founder of Alibaba and backing figure behind Blue Pool. |
| Oliver Weisberg | New Board Member | Person | CEO of Blue Pool Capital and appointed board member of Golden Goose. |
| Permira | Majority Stakeholder | Company | A private equity firm retaining the majority stake in Golden Goose. |