Castro-Hodis Group Invests $9 Million to Launch Chinese Sports Giant ANTA in Israel

Castro-Hodis Group has signed a five-year distribution agreement with Chinese sports giant ANTA, marking a significant expansion into Israel's sports fashion market. The partnership, announced on Monday, involves a total investment of approximately 30 million shekels (around $9 million) and plans to officially launch ANTA's presence in Israel by 2027. Castro-Hodis will handle wholesale distribution, establish a nationwide network of dedicated physical stores, and launch an online e-commerce platform for the brand.

The agreement grants Castro-Hodis the first right to extend the contract after five years, contingent on meeting specified targets. As part of the strategic rollout, Castro-Hodis is negotiating with third parties to potentially take up to a 49% stake in the dedicated subsidiary managing ANTA's operations in Israel, while retaining full control. These partners may also acquire lease rights for retail locations and take over infrastructure and staff in exchange for a one-time payment.

ANTA Sports, listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, is the world's third-largest sports equipment company, with revenues of approximately $11.6 billion in 2025. The company operates over 10,000 stores in China and about 250 internationally. ANTA also controls the Finnish sports conglomerate Amer Sports, which owns brands such as Salomon, Wilson, Arc'teryx, and Peak Performance, and is the largest shareholder in the German sports brand Puma.

Castro-Hodis CEO Yair Ohayon expressed pride in bringing ANTA to Israel, highlighting the brand's international success, product quality, technological innovation, and broad customer appeal. He stated confidence that Israeli consumers will enthusiastically embrace ANTA, supported by Castro-Hodis's experience and the brand's global growth potential.