The Financial Times has published an article examining alleged personal and business links surrounding CCC’s former Russian operations, which the Polish footwear company sold after the outbreak of the war in Ukraine. The report appeared as CCC’s share price rose sharply following buyback proposals, including one submitted by an entity linked to CEO and main shareholder Dariusz Miłek.

According to FT, CCC sold its Russian business in 2022 to an undisclosed buyer. Journalists claim that the company was ultimately acquired by Aleksandra Andriejewna Musina, the sister-in-law of Miłek’s life partner. After rebranding as Obuv, the Russian firm reportedly continued selling products similar to those offered by CCC. The article also alleges that Obuv sourced goods from Giro Trading (GT), a wholesale client of CCC established in 2022. Although CCC insists GT is independent, FT argues it is informally linked to the group through ownership, shared locations, and personnel connections.

Another firm mentioned is Adler International, which CCC also describes as unrelated, despite former employees reportedly listing it online as part of the CCC group. CCC has strongly denied all allegations, stating it has had no economic interest, oversight, or involvement in Russia since early 2022 and has supplied no products there. The company suggests the claims may be connected to coordinated short-selling activities targeting its shares.

(pb.pl)