Who Owned Gucci Before Kering?

If you’re a fashion enthusiast, then you’ve probably heard of Gucci. This iconic Italian fashion brand is known for its luxurious designer clothing, accessories, and fragrances.

However, do you know who owned Gucci before Kering? Let’s take a closer look at the history of this renowned fashion house.

The Beginnings of Gucci

Guccio Gucci founded the brand in Florence, Italy in 1921. At first, Gucci focused on selling leather goods such as luggage and handbags. The company quickly gained popularity thanks to its high-quality craftsmanship and unique designs.

The Rise of Gucci

In the 1950s and 1960s, Gucci became an international symbol of luxury and sophistication. The brand expanded its product line to include clothing, jewelry, watches, and other accessories. Celebrities such as Audrey Hepburn and Jackie Kennedy were often seen sporting Gucci products.

The Internal Struggles of Gucci

In the late 1970s and early 1980s, internal struggles plagued the company. The founder’s son Aldo Gucci was convicted of tax evasion in 1986 which led to his removal from the company’s board of directors. Furthermore, family feuds over control of the business led to a decline in quality and loss of revenue.

The Acquisition by Investcorp

To save the brand from further decline, the family sold their shares to Bahrain-based investment firm Investcorp in 1993 for $120 million. This acquisition allowed for a new management team to take over which helped turn around the company’s fortunes.

From PPR to Kering

In 2004, French retail group Pinault-Printemps-Redoute (PPR) acquired a majority stake in Gucci for $3 billion. This acquisition allowed the brand to expand its global reach and product offerings. In 2013, PPR rebranded itself as Kering and Gucci became one of its subsidiary brands.

Conclusion

Gucci has had a long and tumultuous history but remains one of the most iconic fashion brands in the world. From its humble beginnings in Florence to its acquisition by Kering, Gucci’s legacy is one of luxury, style, and innovation.