Who Currently Owns Versace?

Gianni Versace, the Italian fashion designer founded Versace in 1978. Since then, the brand has become synonymous with luxury and glamour.

However, after Gianni Versace’s untimely death in 1997, the ownership of the company has changed hands a few times. In this article, we will take a closer look at who currently owns Versace.

Early Ownership of Versace

After Gianni’s death, his sister Donatella took over as creative director of the brand. However, Gianni had left 50% of the company to his niece Allegra Versace and the other half was split between his brother Santo and Donatella.

The Sale to Blackstone Group

In 2014, Blackstone Group bought a 20% stake in Versace for $205 million. The deal allowed the company to expand its retail presence in Asia and North America.

The Acquisition by Michael Kors

In September 2018, Michael Kors Holdings Limited announced that it had acquired all outstanding shares of Gianni Versace S.r.l for $2.12 billion. The acquisition made Michael Kors one of the world’s largest fashion conglomerates with a portfolio that includes Michael Kors, Jimmy Choo, and now Versace.

What Does This Mean for Versace?

The acquisition by Michael Kors has significant implications for Versace as a brand. For one thing, it means that Donatella will continue to serve as creative director of the brand while Santo will remain on board as chairman. Additionally, the acquisition will allow for greater investment in marketing and advertising efforts which could help to increase sales and expand the reach of the brand.

Controversy Surrounding the Acquisition

The acquisition was not without controversy though. Some industry experts have expressed concern that the acquisition could dilute the brand’s identity and lead to a loss of its unique Italian flair. Others have criticized Michael Kors for paying too much for the acquisition.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Versace is currently owned by Michael Kors Holdings Limited. While the acquisition has been met with some controversy, it remains to be seen how it will impact the future of Versace as a brand. One thing is for certain though – Versace will continue to be a leader in luxury fashion and an icon of Italian style and glamour.