Boots footwear

Boots is a historic British health and beauty brand founded in 1849 by John Boot in Nottingham. While primarily known as a pharmacy chain (Boots the Chemists), the brand also encompasses a wide range of own-label consumer goods, including footwear such as slippers, seasonal sandals, and medical hosiery.

In August 2025, a significant structural change occurred when the private equity firm Sycamore Partners completed a $10 billion acquisition of Walgreens Boots Alliance (WBA). This deal resulted in the split of Boots into a standalone private entity known as The Boots Group, headquartered in the United Kingdom. Italian billionaire Stefano Pessina, a long-time figure in the company's history, remains a significant shareholder.

Manufacturing of Boots-branded products, including footwear, is managed through various global suppliers and the company's own contract manufacturing divisions. Production typically occurs across multiple countries, including the UK, China, and Southeast Asia, depending on the specific product line. As of 2026, the company is undergoing a strategic overhaul under Sycamore Partners, with reports suggesting a potential return to the London Stock Market through an IPO in 2027.