Rieker footwear

Rieker is a historic footwear brand that originated in 1874 in Tuttlingen, located in the Black Forest region of Southern Germany. Originally founded by Heinrich Rieker and Carl Seitz as 'Rieker & Seitz', the company initially focused on crafting high-quality shoes for the affluent markets of Northern Italy. Over its 150-year history, the brand evolved into a household name across Central Europe, gaining a reputation for its 'Antistress' technology which emphasizes lightweight construction, flexibility, and shock absorption.

In the early 1970s, the company underwent a significant strategic shift, moving its corporate headquarters to Thayngen, Switzerland. While its heritage is German, Rieker's global footprint has expanded significantly. Today, the brand is in its fifth and sixth generation of family ownership, maintaining its status as an independent, family-run enterprise.

Manufacturing is a truly global operation. To maintain complete control over quality and respond quickly to fashion trends, Rieker owns and operates its own production facilities rather than relying on third-party contractors. These factories are primarily located in Morocco, Slovakia, Tunisia, Vietnam, and Romania. The company employs over 20,000 people worldwide and distributes its products to thousands of independent retailers, particularly across Europe and North America.