Is Gucci Black Owned?

Gucci is a luxury fashion brand that has been around for almost a century. It’s known for its iconic designs and high-end products that cater to the elite.

However, there has been an ongoing debate on whether Gucci is black-owned or not. In this article, we will delve deeper into the history and ownership of Gucci.

The History of Gucci

Gucci was founded in 1921 by an Italian businessman named Guccio Gucci. The brand started as a small leather goods store in Florence, Italy, and gradually expanded into a global fashion empire. Over the years, Gucci has become synonymous with luxury and elegance, and its products are highly sought after by fashion enthusiasts all over the world.

The Ownership of Gucci

Currently, Gucci is owned by the French luxury goods conglomerate Kering. Kering acquired a majority stake in the company in 1999, and since then, it has been the sole owner of the brand. Therefore, it’s safe to say that Gucci is not black-owned.

The Controversy Surrounding Gucci

Despite not being black-owned, Gucci has faced backlash from the black community over the years due to several controversies. One such instance was when they released a sweater that resembled blackface in 2019.

The design featured a balaclava-style turtleneck with bright red lips on it, which many people found offensive and racist. The backlash was immediate, and several celebrities called for a boycott of the brand.

Gucci later apologized for their insensitivity and removed the sweater from their collection.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Gucci is not black-owned currently, it has faced criticism from the black community due to insensitive designs in recent years. It’s essential for brands to be mindful of cultural sensitivity and diversity while creating their products to avoid such controversies. As consumers, it’s our responsibility to call out brands when they engage in insensitive practices and hold them accountable for their actions.