When Did Michael Kors Buy Versace?

In September 2018, Michael Kors Holdings Limited officially announced its acquisition of the luxury fashion brand Versace. The deal was worth a staggering $2.12 billion and made headlines in the fashion industry.

Background:
Versace was founded in 1978 by Italian fashion designer Gianni Versace. The brand quickly gained popularity for its bold, colorful designs and became a favorite among celebrities and high-profile individuals.

However, tragedy struck in 1997 when Gianni Versace was fatally shot outside his Miami Beach home. His sister Donatella took over as creative director of the brand and continued to carry on his legacy.

The Acquisition:
The acquisition of Versace by Michael Kors Holdings Limited was a significant move for both companies. Michael Kors, known for its classic American style, aimed to expand its presence in the luxury fashion market with this acquisition. Meanwhile, Versace gained access to Michael Kors’ resources and expertise in areas such as retail operations and e-commerce.

The acquisition also meant that Versace would become part of Capri Holdings Limited, the newly-formed company that also owned Michael Kors and Jimmy Choo.

The Reaction:
The news of the acquisition was met with mixed reactions from the public and industry insiders alike. Some praised the move as a strategic business decision that would benefit both brands. Others were concerned that Michael Kors’ reputation for affordable luxury might dilute the exclusivity of Versace’s high-end designs.

However, Donatella Versace herself expressed excitement about the deal, saying that it would allow her to focus on creativity while leaving other aspects of the business to Capri Holdings Limited.

The Future:
Since the acquisition, both brands have continued to operate independently with their own unique identities intact. However, there have been some notable changes such as increased collaborations between Michael Kors and Versace – including a joint runway show in 2019 – and the closure of some Versace stores in order to streamline operations.

Overall, the acquisition of Versace by Michael Kors Holdings Limited was a significant move in the fashion industry. Only time will tell how this acquisition will affect the future of both companies, but it is clear that it has already had a substantial impact on their operations and collaborations.