Birkenstock
Iconic 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.
- FOUNDED
- 1774
- ACQUIRED
- L Catterton, 2021, $4.85 billion
- IMPACTS
- 2 documented
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Editorial Record
maintained by DeathbyPE. Every claim links to a public source.Timeline
Birkenstock founded
Acquired by L Catterton for $4.85 billion
Birkenstock quality declining under L Catterton PE ownership as prices rise
MediumQuality DeclineSince 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
MediumPrice IncreaseL 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
Before / After
Price increase
reported 2023
before ~$100-$120 for core models
after $150-$170+ for core models
+40%
Average price
reported 2023
before ~$100-$120
after $150-$170+
+40%
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