Cole Haan is a popular brand that has been around for almost a century. The company is known for its high-quality shoes, which have become a favorite among shoe enthusiasts. While many people love Cole Haan shoes, there is a common question that often comes up: who owns Cole Haan shoes?
The answer to this question may surprise you. Cole Haan was actually acquired by Nike in 1988, which means that the athletic giant is the owner of the brand. However, this doesn’t mean that Cole Haan shoes are just another Nike product. In fact, the two brands operate independently, with Cole Haan focusing solely on high-quality footwear. So if you’re a fan of Cole Haan shoes, now you know who’s behind the brand.
Cole Haan Shoes is currently owned by Apax Partners, a private equity firm. The company was previously owned by Nike, which acquired Cole Haan in 1988 and sold it to Apax Partners in 2012. Cole Haan is known for its high-quality, stylish footwear for both men and women.
Who Owns Cole Haan Shoes?
Cole Haan is a well-known American brand that specializes in casual and dress shoes, handbags, and accessories for men and women. The brand has been around for nearly a century and is known for its quality craftsmanship, comfort, and style. But who owns Cole Haan Shoes?
History of Cole Haan
Cole Haan was founded in 1928 in Chicago by Trafton Cole and Eddie Haan. The brand started as a men’s footwear label but has since expanded to include women’s shoes, handbags, and accessories. In 1975, Cole Haan was acquired by Nike, Inc., and it remained a subsidiary of the company for over 30 years.
In 2012, Nike decided to sell Cole Haan to focus on its core athletic business. The brand was acquired by Apax Partners, a private equity firm, for $570 million. Under Apax’s ownership, Cole Haan has continued to grow and expand its offerings, including launching a men’s and women’s athleisure line.
Current Ownership of Cole Haan
In 2020, Cole Haan went public and is now listed on the NASDAQ stock exchange under the ticker symbol “CLHN.” The company’s current ownership is spread across various institutional investors, including BlackRock, Vanguard, and State Street, among others. However, Apax Partners still holds a significant stake in the brand.
Despite changing ownership over the years, Cole Haan has remained true to its roots of quality craftsmanship and timeless style. The brand continues to innovate and introduce new designs while staying true to its heritage.
Benefits of Cole Haan Shoes
Cole Haan Shoes are known for their comfort, durability, and style. The brand uses high-quality materials, such as leather and suede, and incorporates innovative technologies, such as Grand.OS cushioning and FlexFit stretch panels, to ensure a comfortable fit.
Cole Haan Shoes are versatile and can be dressed up or down, making them perfect for a variety of occasions. The brand offers a range of styles, from classic wingtips and loafers to trendy sneakers and boots, so there is a shoe for every taste and preference.
Cole Haan Shoes vs. Other Brands
When it comes to comparing Cole Haan Shoes to other brands, there are a few key factors to consider. First, Cole Haan Shoes are known for their comfort, thanks to the brand’s use of innovative technologies like Grand.OS cushioning. Second, Cole Haan Shoes offer a wide range of styles, from classic to trendy, making them versatile and suitable for many occasions.
Finally, Cole Haan Shoes are made with high-quality materials and are built to last, which sets them apart from some lower-priced brands that use synthetic materials and may not be as durable. While Cole Haan Shoes may be more expensive than some other brands, the quality and craftsmanship make them a worthwhile investment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Cole Haan Shoes are a beloved American brand that has been around for nearly a century. The brand has changed ownership over the years but has remained true to its roots of quality craftsmanship and timeless style. Today, Cole Haan Shoes are owned by various institutional investors, including Apax Partners, and are known for their comfort, versatility, and durability. Whether you’re looking for a classic dress shoe or a trendy sneaker, Cole Haan has a shoe for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who owns Cole Haan Shoes?
Cole Haan Shoes is owned by Apax Partners, a private equity firm based in London, England. The company was previously owned by Nike, Inc., but was sold to Apax Partners in 2018 for $500 million.
Apax Partners is known for investing in and acquiring companies in various industries, including healthcare, technology, and retail. They have a track record of successful investments and have been in business for over 40 years.
When was Cole Haan Shoes founded?
Cole Haan Shoes was founded in 1928 in Chicago, Illinois by Trafton Cole and Eddie Haan. The company originally started as a men’s footwear brand, but later expanded into women’s footwear and accessories.
Over the years, Cole Haan Shoes has become known for its high-quality craftsmanship and innovative designs. The company has won numerous awards and has been recognized for its commitment to sustainability and social responsibility.
Where are Cole Haan Shoes made?
Cole Haan Shoes are made in various countries around the world, including Italy, China, and India. The company works with a network of skilled artisans and manufacturers to produce their shoes and accessories.
Cole Haan Shoes is committed to ensuring that their products are made in ethical and sustainable ways. They have implemented strict guidelines and standards for their suppliers and regularly audit their factories to ensure compliance.
What types of shoes does Cole Haan Shoes offer?
Cole Haan Shoes offers a wide range of shoes for both men and women, including dress shoes, casual shoes, sneakers, and boots. They also offer a variety of accessories, such as handbags, wallets, and belts.
The company is known for their innovative designs and use of high-quality materials. They offer a range of styles and sizes to fit the needs of a diverse customer base.
Where can I buy Cole Haan Shoes?
Cole Haan Shoes can be purchased at a variety of retail locations, including their own stores, department stores, and online retailers. They have a strong online presence and offer a user-friendly website for customers to browse and purchase their products.
In addition to their own stores and website, Cole Haan Shoes can also be found at retailers such as Nordstrom, Macy’s, and Bloomingdale’s. They have a global presence and are sold in over 60 countries worldwide.
In conclusion, the question of who owns Cole Haan shoes may seem simple, but it is actually quite complex. While the brand was originally founded by Trafton Cole and Eddie Haan in 1928 as an independent company, it has since been through a number of ownership changes.
Currently, Cole Haan is owned by Apax Partners, a private equity firm that acquired the company from Nike in 2013. This acquisition allowed Cole Haan to operate as a standalone brand once again, after spending over two decades under the Nike umbrella.
Despite the changes in ownership, Cole Haan continues to be a beloved brand known for its high-quality footwear and accessories. Whether you’re in the market for a stylish pair of sneakers or a sophisticated pair of dress shoes, Cole Haan is sure to have something to suit your needs. So next time you slip on a pair of Cole Haan shoes, you can appreciate the rich history and complex ownership behind this iconic brand.
