Introduction to Versace’s Sale
In January, Capri entered Barclays for the first time to secure a buyer for Versace and Jimmy Choo. Other players, including the CEO of EX-Gucci, Marco Bizzarri, and the Primavera Capital Group, signaled their interest in the possibility of acquiring Versace. It is rare that a famous fashion house like Versace is put up for sale, especially in an unloading situation, which sparked interest and speculations about where Versace would end up.
The Need for Turnaround
As part of the Capri and the Versace deal, a turnaround begins for Prada. Capri’s turnover has decreased over the years, and Versace’s turnover in the third quarter of the 2025 financial year decreased by 15 percent to 193 million US dollars, while group revenue decreased by 11.6 percent. Capri aims to expand Versace into a brand worth 1.5 billion US dollars.
Challenges for Versace
Versace needs a resuscitation, according to analysts. The company must recruit a broader luxury basis and balance new and existing commitment from individuals with high network values and exhausting consumers. Another task is to redefine who the Versace customer is today, especially in a market dominated by calm luxury and a retreat from logos. A new design vision, with the continued participation of Donatella as an ambassador, will mark an update of the creative prospects of the brand.
Prada’s Acquisition of Versace
"The acquisition of Versace is another step in the evolutionary journey of our group and adds a new dimension that is different and complementary," said the CEO of the Prada Group. "The group’s infrastructure is strong, we have verticalized the organizations of our brands, and strengthened our routines and processes. We feel ready to open this new chapter. Versace has great potential. The journey will be long and will require disciplined execution and patience."
Impact of US Tariffs
Yesterday, reports appeared that US tariffs could affect business, with speculation that the price was reduced by 200 million US dollars. Original reports produced the Versace price for 1.6 billion US dollars.
Capri’s Ambitions
When Capri formed as a group around the Versace acquisition, which was announced at the end of 2018 and closed in early 2019, ambitions were to create an American luxury conglomerate. A well-known European brand in their stable would help compete with the heavyweights of fashion in Italy and France. However, pandemic disorders and a failed CEO succession plan have hindered Capri’s progress.
