Puma
Puma SE, established in 1948 by Rudolf Dassler, is a global German corporation specializing in athletic and casual footwear, apparel, and accessories, known for its enduring competitive presence and innovative contributions to sports and lifestyle markets.
Quick Facts
- Founded
- 1948
- Founder
- Rudolf Dassler
- Origin
- Germany
Founders
Story Chapters
Timeline
Puma Founded
Rudolf Dassler founded Puma in Herzogenaurach, Germany, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the sporting goods industry.
Introduction of Super Atom
Puma introduced the Super Atom, the first football boot with screw-in studs, revolutionizing the sport and establishing Puma as an innovator.
Launch of Puma King
Puma launched the Puma King, a football boot that would become iconic and further cement the company's reputation for quality and innovation.
Global Expansion
Puma expanded its presence internationally, establishing showrooms and distribution centers across Europe, North America, and Asia.
Rudolf Dassler Passes Away
Rudolf Dassler passed away, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and leadership that continued to shape Puma's future.
Public Listing
Puma went public on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange, marking a new era of growth and investment opportunities.
Jochen Zeitz Becomes CEO
Jochen Zeitz was appointed CEO of Puma, steering the company through financial challenges and leading a successful turnaround.
PPR Acquires Puma
French luxury group PPR (now Kering) acquired a majority stake in Puma, integrating the brand into a portfolio of global fashion icons.
Sustainability Initiatives
Puma launched a series of sustainability initiatives, emphasizing environmental responsibility and ethical business practices.
Return to Basketball
Puma re-entered the basketball market, signing high-profile athletes and launching new products to capture a growing audience.
Connected Across The Archives
Explore specific connections to other archives—civilizations, conflicts, dynasties, and treaties that share history with this company.

Civilization Archive
(5)Austrian Empire
Puma emerged in post-WWII Germany, amid the Austrian Empire's decline, reflecting Europe's shifting political and economic landscapes.
Byzantine Empire
The Byzantine Empire's cultural and commercial legacy influenced European dynamics, indirectly affecting the environment where Puma was founded.
Holy Roman Empire
The Holy Roman Empire's dissolution paved the way for modern German states, setting historical conditions for Puma's eventual establishment.
Mughal Civilization
The Mughal Empire's trade networks with Europe laid the groundwork for modern global commerce, influencing Puma's international market strategies.
Soviet Civilization
Puma's 1948 founding during the Cold War reflects the era's intense global trade competition and geopolitical tensions.
Conflict Archive
(2)Algerian War
The Algerian War's fight for independence mirrored post-war Germany's economic revival, where Puma capitalized on shifting global power dynamics.
First Indochina War
The First Indochina War marked the decline of French colonial power in Asia, coinciding with Puma's emergence during global decolonization efforts.
Explore Related Archives
Great companies don't emerge in a vacuum. They rise from the foundations of civilizations, the ambitions of rulers, and the aftermath of conflicts. Explore the historical context:
