Transaction completed on 31 August 2026 – Stefan Stolitzka takes full ownership of the Austrian footwear manufacturer via SLE Schuh GmbH
Graz, September 2026. The ownership structure of legero united (Legero Schuhfabrik GesmbH) is being reorganised. Until now, Stefan Stolitzka held a 50.1 per cent stake in Legero Schuhfabrik GesmbH via SLE Schuh GmbH, whilst 49.9 per cent had been held by ara AG since 1997. SLE Schuh GmbH has now acquired ara AG’s minority stake and is thus the sole owner of legero united. The transaction was completed on 31 August 2026.
“By acquiring ara AG’s shares, we are sending a clear signal about the future of our company: being the sole, 100 per cent owner gives us the opportunity to continue developing legero united as a family-run business in a consistent manner and with a long-term perspective,” says Stefan Stolitzka. As recently as July, the company expanded its brand family with the acquisition of the German children’s footwear specialist VADO and now, with its four brands – superfit, legero, Think! and VADO – boasts a broad portfolio and a strong position in the international footwear market. “The acquisition of VADO and the minority stake in ara AG are two key building blocks in positioning our company for a sustainable future. With a focus on growth, innovation and our brands, we aim to further strengthen our position as an international footwear manufacturer and as an independent, Austrian family-owned business,” said Stefan Stolitzka.
Stefan Stolitzka paid tribute to the collaboration with ara AG: “We would like to thank ara AG for the long-standing and successful partnership. Together, we have taken significant steps for legero united. We look back on our time together with gratitude and wish ara AG all the best for the future.”