Is Versace Still a Private Company?

Versace is a world-renowned luxury fashion brand that has been around for over four decades. The company was founded by Gianni Versace in 1978 and has since become a household name thanks to its unique designs and high-end products. One question that many people ask is whether Versace is still a private company or if it has gone public.

History of Versace

Gianni Versace started the company in 1978 in Milan, Italy. He quickly became known for his bold and innovative designs, which attracted the attention of celebrities and fashion enthusiasts alike. Over the years, the company expanded its product line to include clothing, accessories, perfumes, and home furnishings.

Ownership of Versace

Versace remained a private company until September 2018 when it was acquired by Michael Kors Holdings Limited (now Capri Holdings Limited) for $2.12 billion. The deal included all aspects of the business, including the brand’s intellectual property rights, design studios, retail network, and corporate operations.

Despite the acquisition, Capri Holdings Limited decided to keep Donatella Versace as the creative director of the brand – a role she had held since her brother’s death in 1997. Donatella remains an integral part of the company’s success and continues to innovate with her designs.

The Impact of Going Public

Some luxury fashion brands have chosen to go public in recent years to raise capital for expansion or pay off debt. Going public can also increase a company’s visibility and prestige.

However, going public also comes with some drawbacks. Publicly traded companies are required to disclose financial information to shareholders and the public – information that was previously kept private. This can lead to increased scrutiny from investors and analysts who may not fully understand or appreciate the nuances of luxury fashion.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Versace is no longer a private company but was acquired by Capri Holdings Limited in 2018. Despite this change in ownership, the brand remains true to its roots and continues to produce high-quality products that are beloved by fashion enthusiasts around the world. Going forward, it will be interesting to see how Versace continues to evolve under its new ownership and whether it will choose to go public in the future.