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The sock subscription service from BLACKSOCKS was launched in 1999. These socks are still available, but a lot has happened since then: underwear and T-shirts have been added to the lineup, the company was acquired, and much more.
Get an overview here of the latest news from BLACKSOCKS over the past few years. Or sign up for the newsletter right away to stay up to date!
September 2023
Jacob Rohner AG acquires BLACKSOCKS SA
Effective September 15, Jacob Rohner AG will acquire 100 percent of BLACKSOCKS SA. The co-founder and CEO is handing over management to Jacob Rohner AG effective immediately but will remain on hand in an advisory capacity for the next 3 months. Hermann Lion will assume the position of managing director effective September 15, 2023. For customers of BLACKSOCKS SA, nothing will change for the time being. As usual, high-quality socks and first-class underwear will be offered through subscriptions or as one-time orders.
The Zurich location and its employees will be retained for the time being.
Hermann Lion, CEO of Jacob Rohner AG, commented on the acquisition: “BLACKSOCKS, as an internet pioneer, has laid an excellent foundation on which we can further develop the business. The good reputation of BLACKSOCKS will be preserved and further developed as a brand. We see great potential in production, logistics, and distribution to position BLACKSOCKS for the next 25 years. In doing so, we aim to leverage and expand synergies while drawing on our many years of experience. This acquisition will position us as the market leader in the D2C channel, and we look forward to serving Blacksocks customers with our high-quality products.”
The former owner and co-founder of BLACKSOCKS says: “In November 1998, we launched BLACKSOCKS with the idea of offering black socks via subscription—that was a bold decision. After nearly 25 years, it’s time to let my baby go so it can continue to evolve in a new context. I realize that I’ve shaped BLACKSOCKS and will always remain its founder. But it’s time to let go and pass on my many years of experience in the digital world and as an entrepreneur in a different way. Starting in 2024, I will take on consulting engagements and serve in an advisory capacity. I’m convinced that my “baby” is in good hands at Jacob Rohner AG and will continue to thrive. BLACKSOCKS is a perfect fit for Jacob Rohner AG, and I’m happy for everyone.”
The parties have agreed not to disclose the purchase price.
July 2023
Prices are no longer what they were 24 years ago
In the summer of 1999, we launched the idea of offering black socks through a subscription service. There were only two styles: black calf-length socks and Knee High Socks. The calf-length socks went on to become a bestseller, selling in the millions. The price for a sock subscription with 3 deliveries of 3 pairs each is CHF 98 per year, which is below the CHF 100 threshold.
As a Swiss company, we believe in Switzerland as a business location. That’s why we work exclusively with Swiss companies for warehousing, order fulfillment, shipping, and shipping materials.
For a long time, we were able to offset their price increases through economies of scale or a weaker euro exchange rate, so we never raised our prices. For our bestseller, we never had to exceed the CHF 100 threshold.
Over the past two years, raw material prices and energy costs in the EU have risen sharply, fueling inflation and driving up purchase prices. We’re paying about 25% more. Now, for the first time in 24 years, we’re forced to raise our Swiss prices and break the CHF 98 threshold for our bestseller.
This decision was not an easy one for us. It is not about maximizing profits, but about ensuring the company’s continued existence. Compromising on quality or on our production location in Europe has never been an option for us.
February 2023
Organic Now Available as Underwear, Too
Since 2021, we've had our Organic Comfort and Organic Sneaker Socks in our lineup, which are made from GOTS®-certified organic cotton. Now, we finally have the matching boxer shorts to go with them!
The Albertine Organic Boxer Shorts, made from the finest organic cotton, are not only gentle on the environment but also ensure maximum comfort all day long. The high-quality Egyptian organic cotton is certified according to the international GOTS® standard and guarantees strict ecological and social criteria from cultivation to production.
With their slightly longer legs, the Albertine boxer shorts feature a modern cut, making them perfectly suited for today’s environmentally conscious men.