Finance

Soccer stickers maker Panini picks Citi as adviser to explore options, sources say

Published by Global Banking & Finance Review

Posted on October 30, 2025

1 min read

· Last updated: January 21, 2026

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Soccer stickers maker Panini picks Citi as adviser to explore options, sources say
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MILAN (Reuters) -Sports trading-card company Panini has picked Citi as a financial adviser to explore strategic options for the company, including a sale, two sources close to the matter told Reuters.

Panini Engages Citi to Explore Strategic Options Amid Leadership Change

Panini's Strategic Review and Leadership Transition

MILAN (Reuters) -Sports trading-card company Panini has picked Citi as a financial adviser to explore strategic options for the company, including a sale, two sources close to the matter told Reuters. 

Background on Panini and Its Market

The Italian publisher, best known for its popular album stickers featuring soccer stars from top leagues and also for producing comics, has previously worked with advisers and considered a possible sale over the years.

Potential Buyers and Valuation Insights

The new adviser has been named after major shareholder and CEO Aldo Hugo Sallustro died in April. Ivam Ataide Faria has been named new Chief Executive Officer.

Panini and Citi declined to comment. 

Il Sole 24 Ore reported on Thursday that private equity firms and U.S. group The Topps Company could be interested in acquiring the business. 

Corriere della Sera reported that the Modena-based group, whose revenues totalled around 1.6 billion euros ($1.9 billion) last year, could be worth between 3 billion euros and 4 billion euros. 

($1 = 0.8575 euros)

(Reporting by Elisa AnzolinEditing by Keith Weir)

Key Takeaways

  • Panini has engaged Citi to explore strategic options.
  • The company is considering a potential sale.
  • Leadership change follows CEO Aldo Hugo Sallustro's passing.
  • Potential buyers include private equity firms and The Topps Company.
  • Panini's valuation could reach up to 4 billion euros.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a financial adviser?
A financial adviser is a professional who provides guidance on financial matters, including investments, estate planning, and retirement savings, helping clients make informed decisions.
What is private equity?
Private equity refers to investment funds that buy and restructure companies not listed on public stock exchanges, aiming to improve their value before selling them for profit.
What is corporate strategy?
Corporate strategy is a plan that outlines how a company will achieve its goals and objectives, including decisions about resource allocation, mergers, and acquisitions.

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