Camper’s purchase of a majority stake in Ancient Greek Sandals brings together two Mediterranean brands with very different stories. Here is a closer look at the Greek label joining the Mallorcan group.
The brand
Ancient Greek Sandals was founded in Athens in 2012 by Christina Martini and Nikolas Minoglou. The idea was simple: to reinterpret the sandals seen in ancient Greek art for the modern world, using traditional craftsmanship.
Its designs are known for:
- inspiration from Greek mythology and classical art;
- minimalist shapes in natural, vegetable-tanned leather;
- details such as a golden winged buckle, a reference to Hermes, the messenger of the gods.
The sandals are handmade in Greece, and the brand has built an international following, with its designs worn by well-known figures and sold in stores around the world.
The deal
Camper becomes the majority shareholder, while the founders — Minoglou, Martini and partner Yiannis Vagenas — keep a minority stake and continue to run the brand creatively and day to day. Ancient Greek Sandals will remain independent and keep its own identity.
What Camper brings
The Greek brand gains access to Camper’s international sales network, product development, technology and marketing resources. The aim is to help it grow without changing its character.
Miguel Fluxà, Camper’s chief executive, described the deal as an exciting milestone and praised the quality and craftsmanship of the Greek brand. Nikolas Minoglou said the partnership would give the brand the logistical and commercial support it needs to reach more customers while keeping its creative freedom.
Camper’s story
Camper was founded in 1975 by Lorenzo Fluxà in Inca, but its roots go back to 1877, when his grandfather began making shoes on the island. It has become one of Spain’s most recognisable brands, known for designs such as the Pelotas and the mismatched Twins, and for collaborations with international designers.
What it means for customers
For fans of Ancient Greek Sandals, the design and handmade feel of the sandals are expected to stay the same, but the brand could become easier to find, with more shops and a stronger online presence. For Camper, the deal adds a respected premium brand to its portfolio — and strengthens the connection between two Mediterranean islands’ craft traditions.
