Overview
- The companies announced on Wednesday that Ravensburger has taken a reported 60% stake in Steiff while the Steiff heirs retain about 40%, with the purchase price kept confidential and the transaction subject to competition approval.
- Both firms say Steiff will remain an independent premium brand run from its Giengen headquarters and that family owners will stay materially involved, with Ravensburger telling staff there will be no immediate operational changes.
- Ravensburger frames the deal as a way to broaden its revenue base after sales fell from €790 million in 2024 to €742 million in 2025, while Steiff has reported weaker recent results including a small loss in 2023.
- The partners expect to pursue international growth, marketing and channel synergies using Ravensburger’s distribution and brand-management capabilities, though full integration plans will be reviewed only in the medium term.
- Key risks and unknowns remain: cartel clearance is required before the deal closes, the companies refuse to disclose the price, and observers say the move fits a wider pattern of consolidation in a squeezed European toy market.