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Billionaire Profile
Alex Birkenstock
Global Rank
#1964

Alex Birkenstock

CEO, Shoes
Tegernsee, Germany
Real-Time Net Worth
$2.13B
Estimated based on Shoes stock value as of September 10, 2026
0% (24h)
Age
57
Source
Shoes
Industry
Fashion & Retail
Citizenship
Germany

Biography

Alex Birkenstock, born in 1969, is an heir to the German footwear company Birkenstock, a brand with roots tracing back to 1774. His wealth stems from his family's long-standing business, which has transformed from a niche comfort shoe to a global fashion staple. Alex, along with his brother Christian, played a key role in modernizing the company. His career highlights include overseeing the brand's transformation and the 2021 sale of a majority stake in Birkenstock to L Catterton. As of March 25, 2026, his net worth is estimated at $2.2 billion.

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Data Updated
Sep 10, 2026
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Wealth Over Time

Net Worth History

YearNet Worth
2026$2.13B
2025$2.20B
2024$2.20B

Portfolio Holdings

Financière Agache

Financière Agache

Investment Holding
Ownership
5.5%
Paris, France
Founded 1986
L Catterton

L Catterton

Private Equity
Ownership
72%
Greenwich, Connecticut, USA
Founded 1989

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Alex Birkenstock is part of the Birkenstock family, a name synonymous with comfortable and durable footwear. The Birkenstock legacy began in 1774 with Johann Adam Birkenstock, who laid the foundation for the family's shoemaking tradition in Germany. Alex, along with his brothers, represents the most recent generation to contribute to the family business.

Rise to Success

Alex and his brothers, Christian and Stephan, took control of the company in 2002. In 2013, Stephan sold his stake to his brothers. The brothers were instrumental in transforming Birkenstock from a comfort shoe to a global fashion item. A pivotal moment in their success was the sale of a majority stake to L Catterton in 2021. This deal valued the company at approximately $4.9 billion. In October 2023, Birkenstock went public on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker "BIRK", after which Alex Birkenstock exited his stake.

Key Business Strategies

The Birkenstock family focused on professionalizing the company. They appointed the company's first non-family CEO in 2013 to unlock the brand's global potential, leading to a resurgence and global recognition.

Philanthropy

Alex Birkenstock's personal philanthropic activities are kept private, consistent with the discreet nature of inherited European wealth.

Career Milestones

1984

Joined Birkenstock

Alex Birkenstock, the second son of Karl Birkenstock, entered the family business.

2002

Took Control of the Company

Alex and his brothers, Christian and Stephan, were given control of the company.

2013

Stephan Birkenstock Sold Stake

Stephan Birkenstock sold his stake to his two brothers.

2021

Sale to L Catterton

The brothers sold Birkenstock to L Catterton and Bernard Arnault's holding company for more than $4.5 billion.

2023

IPO

Birkenstock Holding plc went public on the New York Stock Exchange.

Billionaires Connected to Alex Birkenstock

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Alex Birkenstock's net worth in 2026?
As of 2026, Alex Birkenstock's estimated net worth is $2.127 billion, ranking #1964 among the world's billionaires. The estimate is based on publicly available shareholding data and market prices, updated daily.
How did Alex Birkenstock make their money?
Alex Birkenstock's wealth primarily comes from Shoes, most notably through Shoes.
Where is Alex Birkenstock from?
Alex Birkenstock is from Germany.
How old is Alex Birkenstock?
Alex Birkenstock is 57 years old.

Sources & References

  1. Alex Birkenstock — Forbes profile — Forbes