Shanghai: ANTA Sports Products Limited (ANTA Sports) has reached a share purchase agreement with Groupe Art©mis, the Pinault family's investment company, to acquire a 29.06 per cent stake in PUMA SE for 1.5 billion euros in cash. (1 Euro = RM4.70)

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the transaction marks a major step in ANTA Sports' globalisation strategy and is expected to close by the end of 2026 pending regulatory approvals and will be fully funded from ANTA Sports' internal cash resources.

ANTA Sports Board Chairman, Ding Shizhong said the partnership will allow both companies to unlock PUMA's potential and accelerate ANTA Sports' international expansion.

'This will further accelerate ANTA Sports' globalisation and help drive the next chapter of growth for the global sports markets, including China - creating lasting value for both companies' consumers and shareholders worldwide,' said Ding.

ANTA Sports, with over 35 years in the sporting goods industry, has established a leading position in China and expanded across Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Africa, North America, and Europe. The company has extensive experience managing multiple international brands and revitalising brand value, including through its 'Brand + Retail' business model.

PUMA is known globally for its heritage and sports portfolio, spanning football, running, training, basketball, and motorsport.

ANTA Sports plans to seek representation on PUMA's Supervisory Board while preserving the brand's identity and independence, with no current plans for a full takeover.