Christian Birkenstock

Christian Birkenstock is an heir to German footwear company Birkenstock, which traces its roots back to 1774.

The company began making its trademark sandals in the 1960s, under the leadership of Christian's father, Karl Birkenstock.

In 2002, Christian and his two brothers, Alex and Stephan, were given control of the company.

Stephan Birkenstock sold his stake to his two brothers in 2013 for an undisclosed amount.

In 2021, the brothers sold Birkenstock to L Catterton and Bernard Arnault's holding company for more than $4.5 billion. Christian rolled forward a stake then worth $300 million.