Camper snaps up majority stake in Ancient Greek Sandals

Family-owned Spanish footwear brand Camper has acquired a majority stake in Ancient Greek Sandals, “uniting two brands with deep Mediterranean roots”.

Under the new agreement, Ancient Greek Sandals’ founders, Nikolas Minoglou and Christina Martini, along with co-owner Yiannis Vagenas, will retain minority ownership and will continue to steer the brand’s vision and operations, remaining Chief Executive Officer, Creative Director and Chief Brand & Marketing Officer, respectively.

While Ancient Greek Sandals will continue to operate as a completely independent brand, preserving its unique Greek identity and aesthetic, the Athens-based brand will now have full access to Camper’s commercial infrastructure, technology, human resources and advanced product development.

Miguel Fluxà, CEO of Camper and member of the fourth generation of the founding family, said: “To welcome Ancient Greek Sandals into our family is a very exciting milestone for us. Nikolas and Christina have built a beautiful brand that perfectly aligns with our own respect for quality and craftsmanship.

“Their deep Mediterranean roots strongly resonate with our DNA. We are full of joy to begin this new chapter together, providing them with our global infrastructure so they can continue to grow their independent vision for the long term.”

Nikolas Minoglou, co-founder and CEO of Ancient Greek Sandals, added: “Partnering with Camper is a dream realised for us. Since day one, Christina and I have been driven by our love for Greek shoemaking history.

“Joining forces with a historic, family-owned company like Camper gives us the logistical, technological, and commercial backing we need to reach our full potential, while allowing us the freedom to remain creatively independent. We couldn’t be more thrilled for the journey ahead.”

Camper’s rich shoemaking heritage dates back to 1877, when the founding family established the first shoe factory in Spain. The Camper brand itself was formally launched on the island of Mallorca in 1975.

Ancient Greek Sandals was founded in 2012 with the vision of creating a modern interpretation of the traditional Greek sandal, handcrafted in Greece by skilled artisans.