Shift4 to acquire Global Blue: A New Strategic Milestone

Global Blue and Shift4, a US-leader in integrated payments and commerce technology, have entered into a definitive agreement under which Shift4 will acquire 100% of Global Blue shares.

Shift4, a US-listed company and a leader in financial technology for over 25 years, offers a comprehensive range of integrated payment technologies to the retail and hospitality sectors. It processes billions of in-person and online transactions, primarily in the US.

Similar to Global Blue and ZigZag, Shift4 has a vision of simplifying consumer experiences through integrated technology and advisory services, reinforced by long-lasting partnerships relationships and a culture of operational excellence.

Please be assured that this change of ownership will not affect our existing partnership or the quality of our service. Shift4 has confirmed the validity of our strategy and remains committed to continuing investments in technology and innovation.

“Joining forces with Shift4 marks a significant milestone in Global Blue’s growth journey, further strengthening our integrated value proposition for our marquee merchants worldwide. We are particularly thrilled to partner with Shift4 to continue our track record of innovation, delivering enhanced experiences for all stakeholders in the shopping ecosystem,” said Global Blue CEO Jacques Stern.

“I would like to thank all Global Blue team members, without whom the success of Global Blue would not have been possible. Additionally, I extend my gratitude to Joe Osnoss, representative of Silver Lake on the Board, for his continuous support and guidance over the last 10 years.”

Shift4 CEO Taylor Lauber said “We are incredibly excited for the opportunity to welcome Jacques and the Global Blue team into the Shift4 family. This transaction is the most significant in our 26 years of history and with good reason. The Global Blue technology stack, marquee customers and industry leading position will serve as a cornerstone for our global expansion strategy and gives us meaningful scale in many new geographies. Boldly Forward!”

For more information about the acquisition, please view the release from Global Blue here.

About Global Blue

Global Blue is the business partner for the shopping journey, providing technology and services to enhance the experience and drive performance.

With over 40 years of expertise, today we connect thousands of retailers, acquirers, and hotels with nearly 80 million consumers across 52 countries, in three industries: Tax Free Shopping, Payments and Post-Purchase solutions.

With over 2,000 employees, Global Blue generated €28bn Sales in Store and €422M revenue in FY 2023/24. Global Blue is listed on the New York Stock Exchange. For more information, please visit www.globalblue.com.

About Shift4

Shift4 (NYSE: FOUR) is boldly redefining commerce by simplifying complex payments ecosystems across the world. As the leader in commerce-enabling technology, Shift4 powers billions of transactions annually for hundreds of thousands of businesses in virtually every industry. For more information, visit shift4.com.

About ZigZag

ZigZag is a software solution to help eCommerce retailers manage returns domestically and globally. The ZigZag platform connects major retailers to a global network of over 200 warehouses and 1,500+ carrier services in over 170+ countries. ZigZag's clients include Selfridges, Frasers Group, Boden, New Look, Puma, The Hut Group, and many more.

ZigZag delivers best-in-class technology and service to transform the post-purchase and returns experience globally. ZigZag’s mission is to reduce cost and waste, increase customer loyalty, and enable our clients to be more profitable and sustainable.  

ZigZag has continually been awarded for its innovation and data winning 15 awards since 2019, including Tech Innovator of the Year at the prestigious Drapers Awards 2023 and four awards in 2024.

Learn more about ZigZag at https://www.zigzag.global/

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