Swiss company Arklyz AG, specializing in sports, lifestyle, and workwear, has successfully acquired the renowned German premium footwear brand, Lloyd Shoes GmbH, from Ara AG. The acquisition includes all operating subsidiaries of Lloyd Shoes, and Arklyz plans to provide strategic support and resources to enhance and expand the brand’s wholesale, omnichannel, and international business.
Param Singh, the owner and CEO of Arklyz Group, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating, “This is a unique opportunity to take over one of the most respected and well-known companies in the German shoe industry. Lloyd is already the undisputed market leader in the men’s premium segment in its core European markets, and we look forward to further developing it internationally. Further, there are strong opportunities to grow Lloyd by strengthening its omni-channel presence. I am incredibly happy to welcome Lloyd to Arklyz Group.”
Founded in 1888, Lloyd is a prominent player in the premium footwear sector, particularly in German-speaking and Scandinavian countries. The brand offers footwear for both men and women and provides leather goods such as jackets, bags, and belts in 48 countries. Lloyd operates 35 concept stores in major cities across Germany, Copenhagen, Lima, Vienna, and Beijing, in addition to its e-commerce channel.
Andreas Schaller, Managing Director of Lloyd Shoes GmbH, shared his vision for the brand, saying, “Lloyd aims to become a highly recognized premium footwear and lifestyle brand, globally. We have been growing nicely over the last years. Now, together with Arklyz and its expertise, we can further strengthen our omnichannel strategy and expand in the international markets.”
The transaction is anticipated to be finalized in the first half of 2024, pending customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals. Arklyz, established in 2018 by Param Singh, focuses on various aspects of the industry, including brand management, distribution, retail, e-commerce, and manufacturing. The company owns several global licenses and engages in wholesale distribution with retail for brands such as Salomon, Head, Crocs, Nordica, Adidas, and Hey Dude.