Camper, the shoe company founded in Inca, Mallorca, has acquired a majority stake in Ancient Greek Sandals, the Athens-based brand known for its handmade leather sandals. The price has not been disclosed.
The deal
Camper now owns most of the Greek company, but the founders will keep a minority stake and remain involved. They are Nikolas Minoglou, Christina Martini and Yiannis Vagenas, who will continue to lead the brand’s creative direction and day-to-day running.
Shared roots
Both companies see the deal as a natural fit between two Mediterranean brands. Camper says the two share values such as craftsmanship, durable design and pride in their cultural heritage.
Ancient Greek Sandals, founded in 2012, makes leather sandals by hand in Greece, with minimalist designs inspired by classical art and mythology — including its well-known winged buckle, a reference to Hermes. The brand has built an international following in fashion circles.
Independence
Camper has promised that Ancient Greek Sandals will continue to operate independently and keep its Greek identity. What it will bring is its international sales network, production expertise and logistical support, which should help the sandals reach more shops and online customers.
What they said
Miguel Fluxà, Camper’s chief executive, described the acquisition as an exciting milestone that fits with Camper’s own DNA. Nikolas Minoglou said the partnership would give the brand the logistical and commercial support it needs to grow, while protecting its creative freedom.
Camper’s story
Camper was founded in 1975 by Lorenzo Fluxà, but its roots go back to 1877, when his grandfather Antonio Fluxà started making shoes in Inca, the town that became the centre of Mallorca’s footwear industry. Today Camper sells its shoes in dozens of countries, and remains one of the best-known Mallorcan brands in the world.
The acquisition is part of a wider strategy of building a group of complementary brands while keeping each one’s distinct character.
