One of Central Europe’s leading sports retailers changes ownership after 50 years under Spar as new buyers plan repositioning for changing market. Transaction covers 134 stores generating €314m in sales. Financial terms undisclosed.
Hervis, one of Central Europe’s leading sports retail chains, has been sold to a consortium led by Sven Voth, founder and former CEO of German streetwear and sportswear chain Snipes, and Udo Schloemer, founder of innovation hub Factory Berlin. Austrian retail group Spar, which owned the sports retailer for over 50 years, completed the transaction Jan. 23. Financial terms were not disclosed.
The sale transfers all 134 Hervis stores across Austria, Slovenia, Croatia, and the German state of Bavaria to the new owners. At the end of 2025, Hervis operated 91 Austrian locations and 43 stores in neighboring markets, generating approximately €314 million in sales. All employees will be retained under the new ownership.
The new owners plan to preserve the Hervis brand while repositioning it to address shifting consumer behavior. Changing market conditions drive the need for strategic realignment. Traditional sports participation has declined while newer forms of sport and movement have gained traction in recent years. Meanwhile, growing health consciousness and the longevity trend create opportunities for strategic redirection, according to the company.
The buyers intend to work with management and staff to develop the business model. Focus areas include the future of sports retail, digital transformation potential, and relevant product assortments and sports categories for consumers. Results of this evaluation will be communicated in the coming months.
The sale marks a transition for the retailer, which began in 1970 when Spar acquired stores from German fashion merchant Hermann Visser and subsequently developed a successful sports specialty market concept. Hervis expanded significantly and operated stores in seven countries at its peak before consolidating to its current four-market footprint.
About Hervis
Hervis ranks among Central Europe’s largest sports specialty retailers with 134 stores across Austria, Slovenia, Croatia, and Bavaria, generating €314m in sales in 2025. The chain was established in 1970 and has become one of the region’s most recognized sports retail brands.
About the buyers
Sven Voth founded Snipes, a streetwear and sportswear retail chain that grew to become a major player in the German market before his exit. Udo Schloemer established Factory Berlin, an innovation hub connecting startups, corporates, and investors.
