Global Blue, S.A.

Global Blue, S. A. is a Switzerland-based company that provides tax-free shopping guidance and VAT refund services, enhancing the shopping experience for international travelers through a network of over 300,000 retailers worldwide. Established in 1980, Global Blue, S.

A. specializes in VAT refund services and tax-free shopping solutions. The firm operates from its headquarters in Switzerland and has undergone significant changes, including its recent acquisition by Shift4 Payments, LLC in February 2025. The company has secured a total of 8 funding deals, with the most recent transaction being an acquisition where Shift4 Payments, LLC fully acquired Global Blue, S.

A. The current CEO is Jacques Stern. Global Blue specializes in tax-free shopping guidance and VAT refund services, catering to both retailers and shoppers across numerous regions. The company's primary offerings streamline the VAT refund process for international travelers, enabling them to claim refunds on their purchases from over 300,000 retail partners worldwide.

This service enhances the shopping experience by simplifying the necessary paperwork and expediting refunds through digital platforms. Global Blue also provides analytics and performance tools for retailers, which allows them to optimize operations and enhance customer engagement. The company operates in diverse geographical markets including Europe, Asia, and the Americas, serving a broad customer base that includes major fashion brands, small boutiques, and millions of international travelers seeking tax refunds. Global Blue generated revenue of USD 324,540,342.

90 in 2023, with an EBITDA of USD 67,898,311. 60. The company utilizes various transaction structures, primarily focusing on B2B partnerships with retail stores and direct services to consumers. Revenue-sharing agreements with retailers allow Global Blue to retain a percentage of VAT refunds, while international shoppers pay a processing fee for VAT refund services.

Additionally, performance analytics for retailers contribute to the firm's revenue stream, leveraging its extensive network within the retail sector to maintain consistent transaction volume. In February 2025, Shift4 Payments, LLC agreed to fully acquire Global Blue, S. A. from Tencent Investment and other stakeholders for USD 7.

50 per common share in cash as part of a public-to-private deal. This acquisition is expected to support Shift4 Payments' growth and market reach expansion. Global Blue plans to enhance its product offerings and expand its services into new geographical markets, providing innovative solutions to streamline VAT refunds. The funding from this acquisition will facilitate these initiatives and support the company's strategic growth plans.