When Did Patrizio Bertelli Join Prada?

Patrizio Bertelli is a well-known figure in the fashion industry. He is the CEO of Prada Group, one of the most successful luxury fashion houses in the world.

But when did Patrizio Bertelli join Prada? Let’s take a look back at the history of this iconic brand.

The Early Years of Prada

Prada was founded in 1913 by Mario Prada and his brother Martino as a leather goods shop in Milan, Italy. The brand was known for its high-quality leather products and became popular among the Italian aristocracy.

The Arrival of Patrizio Bertelli

Patrizio Bertelli joined Prada in 1978 as a sales representative. At the time, he was running a leather goods company called I Pellettieri d’Italia, which supplied leather to Prada. Bertelli had an eye for business and quickly recognized the potential of Prada as a global luxury brand.

In 1979, Bertelli became the business partner of Miuccia Prada, Mario’s granddaughter, who took over the company after her father’s death. The two formed an unlikely but successful partnership – Miuccia had a degree in political science and no formal training in fashion design, while Bertelli had no fashion background but was an expert in business strategy.

The Rise of Prada

Under Bertelli’s leadership, Prada expanded its product line beyond leather goods and began producing clothing and accessories. The brand also opened its first international store in London in 1986 and later expanded to New York City.

Bertelli’s innovative marketing strategies helped to establish Prada as a leading luxury brand. He introduced runway shows and celebrity endorsements to promote the brand globally. In addition, he invested heavily in modernizing production techniques and expanding distribution channels.

The Legacy of Patrizio Bertelli

Today, Prada Group is a multinational luxury fashion company with over 600 stores worldwide. Patrizio Bertelli remains the CEO of the company and is widely credited with its success. His unconventional approach to business has made him a legend in the industry, and his influence can be seen in many of the world’s leading luxury brands.

In conclusion, Patrizio Bertelli joined Prada in 1978 as a sales representative and became the business partner of Miuccia Prada in 1979. Under his leadership, Prada expanded globally and became one of the most successful luxury fashion brands in the world. His legacy continues to shape the industry today.