Birkenstock
PE-Owned2 Documented ImpactsIconic German sandal maker acquired by L Catterton (LVMH's PE arm) in 2021. Taken public in October 2023. Consumers report declining quality — thinner cork, cheaper materials, and reduced quality control — while prices have risen significantly under PE ownership.
Ownership Information
Birkenstock is owned by L Catterton. Private equity ownership often leads to cost-cutting, price increases, and reduced quality of service as firms prioritize returns for investors over customers and employees.Learn more about PE ownership impact →
Timeline
Birkenstock founded
Acquired by L Catterton for $4.85 billion
Birkenstock quality declining under L Catterton PE ownership as prices rise
Since L Catterton (LVMH's PE arm) acquired Birkenstock in 2021 and took it public in 2023, consumers report thinner cork footbeds, cheaper-feeling materials, reduced quality control, and significant price increases. Core models now $150-$170+, up substantially from pre-acquisition prices. Classic PE playbook: cut production costs while raising prices to maximize margins for IPO.
Birkenstock prices surged 30-40% under PE ownership ahead of IPO
L Catterton drove aggressive price increases on Birkenstock products after its 2021 acquisition, raising average prices 30-40% to boost revenue numbers ahead of the October 2023 IPO. A brand once known for affordable comfort is now a luxury-priced item.
Birkenstock IPO: How LVMH's PE Arm Cashed In on the Sandal Craze
Financial Times →Before vs. After PE Acquisition
Price increase
Reported 2023
Before PE
~$100-$120 for core models
After PE
$150-$170+ for core models
↑ 40%
Average price
Reported 2023
Before PE
~$100-$120
After PE
$150-$170+
↑ 40%
Tracked Locations
CA (1)
Los Angeles
634 Main St
Los Angeles, CA 90001
555-893-4468
FL (1)
Orlando
9137 Main St
Orlando, FL 32801
555-170-5057
IL (2)
Chicago
5538 Main St
Chicago, IL 60601
555-556-9393
Chicago
1988 Main St
Chicago, IL 60601
555-439-7462
MA (1)
Boston
3592 Main St
Boston, MA 02101
555-391-2993
MN (1)
Minneapolis
3846 Main St
Minneapolis, MN 55401
555-946-6312
PA (1)
Philadelphia
6513 Main St
Philadelphia, PA 19019
555-812-6398
WA (2)
Seattle
7086 Main St
Seattle, WA 98101
555-491-9427
Seattle
5672 Main St
Seattle, WA 98101
555-948-5259