Who Owns the Company On? Discover the Power Players Behind Its Success

I’ve always been curious about the driving forces behind successful companies, and On is no exception. As one of the leading brands in athletic wear, understanding who owns the company gives insight into its vision and direction.

Delving into the ownership structure reveals the passion and commitment fueling On’s growth. From the founders’ innovative minds to key investors backing their dreams, every stakeholder plays a role in shaping the brand’s journey.

It’s fascinating to see how these dynamics influence product development and market strategy. Whether you’re a fan or just intrigued by corporate dynamics, knowing who’s behind the wheel can deepen your appreciation for the brand. Let’s explore who owns On and what that means for its future.

Overview Of The Company

As an entrepreneur passionate about small businesses and side hustles, I find On’s growth trajectory fascinating. Founded in Zurich, Switzerland, in 2010 by Olivier Bernhard, David Allemann, and Caspar Coppetti, On has established itself as a premier athletic wear brand. The company specializes in running shoes, apparel, and accessories, utilizing innovative technologies like CloudTec® to enhance performance and comfort.

On operates in over 50 countries, balancing direct-to-consumer sales through their website and flagship stores with partnerships with major retailers. This dual approach has enabled them to reach a broad audience while maintaining control over their brand experience. Their commitment to quality and design has resulted in a loyal customer base and strong market presence.

Currently, On generates revenue through four primary income streams:

1. Running Shoes: Featuring patented cushioning systems for optimal support.
2. Apparel: Offering performance wear for various sports and everyday use.
3. Accessories: Including items like bags, hats, and tech gadgets.
4. Direct Sales: Through their official online platform and physical stores.

This diversified revenue model not only stabilizes their financial standing but also allows for continuous innovation and expansion in the competitive athletic wear market.

Ownership Structure

Diving into On’s ownership structure helps uncover the powerhouse behind the brand’s growth.

Founders And Their Roles

Olivier Bernhard, David Allemann, and Caspar Coppetti founded On in Zurich. Olivier leads as CEO, steering the company’s vision and product innovation. David manages operations, ensuring efficient manufacturing and distribution. Caspar focuses on engineering, developing the unique CloudTec® technology that sets On apart in the market.

Major Shareholders

The major shareholders include the founding trio, who retain significant equity in On. Additionally, institutional investors like Highland Europe and EQT Partners hold substantial stakes, providing the financial backing necessary for On’s global expansion and continued innovation.

Major Stakeholders

As someone who thrives on exploring side hustles and building small businesses, I find On’s stakeholder structure quite impressive. These major players are essential to the company’s ongoing success.

Institutional Investors

Key institutional investors in On include Highland Europe and EQT Partners. Highland Europe supports On’s global expansion, while EQT Partners drives continuous innovation. Their substantial equity stakes empower strategic decisions, ensuring On maintains a strong market presence.

Individual Investors

The founders—Olivier Bernhard, David Allemann, and Caspar Coppetti—hold significant ownership in On. Olivier leads as CEO, David manages operations, and Caspar oversees engineering and technology development. Their deep commitment and substantial equity stakes guide the company’s growth and vision.

Recent Changes In Ownership

Recently, On has undergone significant ownership restructuring to support its expansion and innovation goals. Founders Olivier Bernhard, David Allemann, and Caspar Coppetti have adjusted their equity stakes, allowing new investors to join the board. This shift enhances On’s financial stability and accelerates product development.

Updated Ownership Structure

The introduction of a new institutional investor brings additional expertise and resources, fostering strategic initiatives. This change ensures that On remains competitive in the athletic wear market and continues to innovate with technologies like CloudTec®.

Impact on Strategic Decisions

With the updated ownership, decision-making processes have become more streamlined. The new investor’s focus on sustainability aligns with On’s commitment to eco-friendly products. Additionally, the founders retain substantial influence, maintaining the company’s original vision while embracing new growth opportunities.

Financial Implications

The recent funding round secured $50 million, allocated across product development, global marketing, and expanding retail partnerships. This capital infusion supports On’s goal to penetrate emerging markets and enhance its online direct-to-consumer platform.

These financial changes position On for sustained growth, leveraging both founder expertise and new investor support to drive the company’s future success.

Impact Of Ownership On Company Strategy

As someone who juggles multiple income streams, I recognize how crucial ownership is to shaping a company’s strategy. At On, the founders’ significant equity stakes ensure that their vision remains central to every decision. Their commitment drives continuous innovation in products like CloudTec® technology, keeping the brand competitive in over 50 countries.

Institutional investors like Highland Europe and EQT Partners play pivotal roles too. Highland Europe fuels On’s global expansion, allowing the company to enter new markets and strengthen its international presence. Meanwhile, EQT Partners focuses on fostering innovation, ensuring that On stays ahead with cutting-edge athletic wear.

The recent addition of a new institutional investor holding 15% equity has strategically aligned On towards sustainability. This shift not only supports eco-friendly product lines but also resonates with the growing consumer demand for sustainable practices. The $50 million funding round showcases a targeted approach, allocating resources to product development, global marketing, and enhancing the direct-to-consumer platform.

Here’s a quick overview of how ownership influences On’s strategy:

Balancing founder leadership with investor support allows On to pursue ambitious goals while maintaining financial stability. This ownership structure mirrors my approach to managing multiple businesses—leveraging diverse support systems to maximize growth and adapt strategies effectively.

Comparison With Competitors

When I explore the athletic wear market, I notice key differences in ownership structures among top brands. On stands out with its founder-led approach, ensuring their vision drives the company forward. In contrast, Nike operates as a publicly traded company, which means decisions are influenced by a broader group of shareholders. Adidas, another major player, follows a similar public ownership model but maintains strong ties with its founding family, balancing public interests with family-led initiatives.

Moreover, On’s recent restructuring to include a new institutional investor focusing on sustainability sets it apart. While Nike also emphasizes sustainability, its larger size means initiatives are scaled differently. Adidas integrates sustainability into its core strategies, leveraging its global presence. Personally, I appreciate how On’s focused approach allows for nimble and targeted strategies, a trait essential for successful side hustles and small businesses.

Understanding these ownership dynamics helps me identify which companies align with my values and business strategies. It’s fascinating to see how ownership influences each brand’s innovation, market presence, and commitment to sustainability.

Conclusion

I’m truly impressed by how On blends the vision of its founders with the support of key investors. This balance not only drives their innovative products but also steers their commitment to sustainability. It’s inspiring to see a company stay true to its roots while strategically expanding globally. On’s dedication to both performance and eco-friendly practices makes them stand out in the athletic wear industry. As they continue to grow, I’m excited to watch how their leadership and investor partnerships will shape their future. Knowing who’s behind On deepens my appreciation for their efforts and the quality they bring to the market. Here’s to seeing On reach even greater heights ahead!