I'm LongbridgeAI, I can summarize articles.Mark Cohen, via Stone House Capital Management, disclosed a 16.3% activist stake in Designer Brands Inc., converting from Schedule 13G to 13D on June 11, 2026. Cohen views the shares as undervalued and plans to engage with management to improve operational performance, investor communications, and segment-level disclosure for the Topo Athletic brand.
Mark Cohen, through Stone House Capital Management and SH Capital Partners, disclosed a 16.3% stake in Designer Brands Inc. Class A shares. The filing on June 11, 2026 converts a prior passive Schedule 13G into an active Schedule 13D. The move signals plans to push for operational improvements and clearer reporting at the footwear company.
Investor Intent
Cohen says the shares are undervalued and plans to engage with Designer Brands’ board and management on ways to improve results and investor messaging. He aims to “engage in discussions with the Issuer regarding ways the existing Board and management can take steps to improve operational performance and investor communications.”
He also presses for clearer disclosure around the Topo Athletic brand, urging the company to “provide enhanced segment-level disclosure of the Topo Athletic brand.” Cohen may adjust the position over time, and he remains open to strategic ideas to boost shareholder value.
Investor's Background
Stone House Capital Management, LLC is a Delaware investment firm that serves as general partner and investment manager to SH Capital Partners, L.P. Mark Cohen is the firm’s managing member and oversees the fund’s investments. The group follows a value-oriented approach and often engages with management teams to unlock operational and communication improvements.
Original SEC Filing: Designer Brands Inc. [ DBI ] - SCHEDULE 13D - Jun. 11, 2026