Is Alexander McQueen Owned by Gucci?
The fashion industry is ever-evolving, and with it come various acquisitions and mergers of iconic fashion houses. One such acquisition that raised many eyebrows was the purchase of Alexander McQueen by Gucci in 2000.
This move changed the course of both brands, making them even more successful than before. However, many people are still confused about the ownership of Alexander McQueen and whether it is still owned by Gucci today.
History of Alexander McQueen
Alexander McQueen was founded in 1992 by the late British designer Lee Alexander McQueen. He quickly rose to fame due to his unconventional designs, which challenged traditional fashion norms. His designs were often inspired by his personal life experiences, and he was known for his dark aesthetics and use of deconstructed tailoring.
Gucci’s Acquisition of Alexander McQueen
In 2000, Gucci Group bought a 51% stake in Alexander McQueen’s brand. This move was part of Gucci’s expansion strategy to acquire other luxury brands to add to its portfolio. The remaining 49% stake was held by Lee Alexander McQueen himself.
The acquisition proved to be fruitful for both brands as they complemented each other well. While Gucci had a strong presence in the accessories market, Alexander McQueen brought innovation and creativity to Gucci’s clothing line-up. Under Gucci’s ownership, the brand expanded globally and became even more successful.
Changes in Ownership
In 2010, after the tragic death of Lee Alexander McQueen, his stake in the company was acquired by Gucci Group (now known as Kering). This made Kering the sole owner of Alexander McQueen.
Since then, Kering has continued to invest in Alexander McQueen and expand its reach. The brand now has a strong online presence and is available in more than 50 countries worldwide.
Conclusion
So, to answer the question, yes, Alexander McQueen is owned by Kering (formerly known as Gucci Group). The acquisition has proved to be successful for both parties and has allowed the brand to continue to innovate and evolve. While Lee Alexander McQueen is no longer with us, his legacy lives on through his designs and the brand he founded.
- Key Takeaways:
- – Alexander McQueen was founded by Lee Alexander McQueen in 1992
- – In 2000, Gucci Group acquired a 51% stake in Alexander McQueen
- – After Lee Alexander McQueen’s death in 2010, Gucci Group (now known as Kering) acquired his remaining stake, making Kering the sole owner of Alexander McQueen
- – Today, Alexander McQueen is a successful luxury brand with a global presence
In conclusion, while it may have been confusing at times, it’s safe to say that Alexander McQueen is owned by Kering (formerly known as Gucci Group). This acquisition has allowed the brand to continue its legacy of innovation and creativity while expanding its reach globally.