Edited by: TJVNews.com

In a transformative deal that highlights both the volatility of global trade and the enduring strength of family-led business, Skechers — the world-renowned footwear brand founded by Jewish entrepreneur Robert Greenberg — is being acquired by investment firm 3G Capital for over $9 billion. As VIN News reported on Monday, the agreement will take the publicly traded company private while retaining its founding leadership at the helm.

The acquisition, which values Skechers at $63 per share, represents a 30% premium over its 15-day average trading price and triggered a dramatic 25% surge in the company’s stock on Monday. Though the move was framed as a strategic growth opportunity, the timing — as the VIN News report pointed out — cannot be ignored. It coincides with rising trade tensions and economic disruption triggered by President Donald Trump’s sweeping new tariffs on Chinese imports.

Trump’s recent 125% tariff hike on goods from China — a retaliatory strike after Beijing raised its own duties to 84% — has sent shockwaves through global markets. The report at VIN News noted that these tariffs are particularly problematic for companies like Skechers, which depend heavily on China-based manufacturing. In fact, about 97% of footwear sold in the U.S. is imported, mostly from Asia, and much of Skechers’ production bears the “Made in China” label.

While neither Skechers nor 3G Capital specifically mentioned the tariffs in their joint press release, the VIN News report observed that the context suggests a strong link. Industry experts have long warned that such protectionist policies could force pricing increases and radical adjustments in supply chain sourcing — something Skechers executives have acknowledged in the past. CFO John Vandemore has previously called the trade environment “dynamic” and suggested the company may need to consider “price modifications and alternative sourcing strategies.”

Despite these geopolitical and economic headwinds, Skechers remains on solid financial footing. As the VIN News report highlighted, the company reported record revenues of $9 billion in 2024, with net earnings reaching $640 million. More than two-thirds of Skechers’ revenue comes from international markets, with China alone contributing a significant 15% to its top line. These numbers reflect the company’s successful global strategy and the resilience of its brand across shifting market dynamics.

Founded in 1992 by Robert Greenberg in Manhattan Beach, California, Skechers has grown from a niche lifestyle brand into a global footwear empire, with over 5,000 retail locations spanning six continents. The company has become known for its aggressive marketing, trend-forward yet comfortable footwear, and a business model that remained anchored in family leadership. Michael Greenberg, Robert’s son, serves as President and has played a pivotal role in expanding the brand’s international footprint.

The Greenbergs are also recognized for their deep commitment to Jewish and philanthropic causes in Southern California. As was indicated in the VIN News report, their decision to remain in leadership positions — Robert Greenberg as CEO and Chairman, and Michael as President — assures investors, employees, and customers that the core identity of Skechers will remain intact even as its ownership structure evolves.

Once the acquisition is finalized — which is expected to occur in the third quarter of this year — Skechers will maintain its headquarters in Manhattan Beach, a location symbolic of both its humble beginnings and enduring independence. VIN News reported that 3G Capital, a firm known for its long-term investment philosophy and past successes with brands like Anheuser-Busch and Burger King, is expected to provide financial stability while allowing the Greenbergs to continue steering the company through a rapidly changing retail landscape.

The deal marks a pivotal moment not only for Skechers but for the broader footwear and retail industry. With escalating U.S.-China tensions and a domestic economic environment in flux, companies like Skechers must navigate an increasingly unpredictable path. But with strong leadership, global diversification, and now substantial private backing, Skechers appears poised to adapt — and possibly thrive — in the turbulent years ahead.

As the VIN News report indicated, the sale of Skechers is not an end, but rather the beginning of a new chapter for one of America’s most iconic and enduring family-run brands.