Leica Camera Explores $1.2 Billion Sale of Controlling Stake

Leica Camera, the German camera maker known for its precision engineering and long legacy in photography, is reportedly considering the sale of a controlling stake in the company that could be valued at about €1 billion ($1.2 billion).

A report by Bloomberg states that Austrian billionaire Andreas Kaufmann and private equity firm Blackstone Inc. are said to be consulting advisers on the potential transaction.

Sources familiar with the matter told Bloomberg that several investment firms, including HSG, formerly Sequoia Capital China, and Altor Equity Partners, have expressed interest in acquiring a stake. 

Leica’s Financial Status

Leica’s financial results have shown steady growth in recent years. In the financial year ending March 2025, the company posted about €596 million ($711 million) in revenue, a 7.6 percent increase over the previous period, driven by its core photography business and expansion into mobile imaging and accessories. 

This marked the fourth consecutive year of growth as Leica celebrated the 100th anniversary of its first mass‑produced camera. 

Growth was driven by the core photography business as well as Leica’s mobile division, which includes a partnership with Chinese phone maker Xiaomi Corp. Germany and other parts of Europe posted the strongest revenue gains.

The company was previously listed on the Frankfurt stock exchange until the Kaufmann family took it private in 2012. Leica faced financial challenges in 2005 when sales slowed and some credit lines were terminated, but the company has since stabilized and returned to growth.

The Kaufmann family, which currently owns Leica, may choose to reinvest in the company following the deal. Despite these discussions, the talks are still at an early stage, and there is no certainty that an agreement will be reached, the report stated. Representatives for Leica, Blackstone, Altor, and HSG declined to comment.

A Brand with Deep History

Leica has a long-standing reputation for innovation and quality. The company’s origins date back about 150 years to Ernst Leitz, who initially focused on manufacturing microscopes. 

The Leica I, the first production model camera, was completed in 1924 and shown at the Spring Trade Fair the following year. Leica formally adopted its now-famous name in 1986, cementing its identity as a leading brand in photography.

A sale of a controlling stake could be a significant turning point for the company, which has remained privately owned for over a decade. 

New investors could provide capital for product development, global expansion, or new technology initiatives. At the same time, maintaining Leica’s reputation for quality and precision will likely remain a priority for any future ownership.

There is no guarantee that a deal will occur, but the discussions highlight the strategic options Leica’s owners are considering. For the company’s loyal customers and photography enthusiasts, any change in ownership will be watched closely to see how it might affect the brand’s products, direction, and commitment to the standards Leica has upheld for nearly a century.

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