Bloomberg reports that Blackstone could sell control of Leica Camera in a €1 billion deal. Rumors about a potential sale have been floating around since 2017:
https://leicarumors.com/2017/09/19/blackstone-has-tasked-morgan-stanley-with-finding-a-buyer-for
Her eis the AI recap of the article:
The Core News Blackstone Inc. and the Kaufmann family (the majority owners) are considering the sale of a controlling stake in Leica Camera AG. The potential deal values the iconic German camera maker at approximately €1 billion ($1.1–1.2 billion).
Key details (published January 23, 2026):
- Sellers: The private equity firm Blackstone, which acquired a ~45% stake in Leica in 2011, is looking to exit its investment. The Kaufmann family, which holds the majority stake, is also involved in the sale discussions but may choose to re-invest in the business following the transaction.
- Potential Buyers: Discussions are reportedly underway with several bidders, including:
- HSG (formerly Sequoia Capital China)
- Altor Equity Partners (a private equity firm)
- Status: The deliberations are described as being in the early stages, and there is no guarantee that a deal will be finalized.
Background & context:
This potential sale marks a significant valuation increase for Leica, which was valued closer to €700 million during previous sale rumors in 2017. Blackstone originally invested in 2011 to help the brand expand internationally, particularly into Asian markets. The company has since successfully transitioned from a niche manufacturer into a broader luxury brand.
FYI: Leica Camera sold 44% of the company to Blackstone for €130 million ($179 million) back in 2011:
라이카의 지분을 45% 가지고 있던 사모펀드 블랙스톤이 지분을 정리하려 한다는 뉴스네요.
잠정적 구매자에 사모펀드 하나와 중국쪽 자본이 있어 소위 짱깨화? 되는거 아니냐는 걱정도 있는 것 같은데,
이미 2011년 블랙스톤에 팔렸던 지분이 다시 정리되는 수준이라 결국 55% 의 라이카 자체 지분은 변동없지 않을까 싶습니다.
물론 중국 자본이 들어오면 영향은 받겠지만.. 그렇다고 뭐 난리칠 수준은 아닐 것 같은..
2011년 블랙스톤 자본 유입이후에 소위 명품전략이 시작되었다고 볼 수도 있긴 하겠네요.
