Luxury news

Richemont buys controlling stake in Italian luxury shoemaker Gianvito Rossi

The acquisition will add another maison to Richemont’s fashion and accessories division, and Gianvito Rossi will retain a minority stake in his namesake label

The shoemaker’s signature models include its €690 Gianvito 105 stilettos and the Bijoux high-heeled sandals that feature a puffy strap and sells for €950

Richemont, the Swiss luxury conglomerate that owns Cartier, is buying a controlling stake in Italian high-end shoemaker Gianvito Rossi.

The acquisition will add another maison to Richemont’s fashion and accessories division, which has failed to grow sales at the same pace as its jewellery and luxury watches units. Terms of the purchase were not disclosed.

The shoemaker’s signature models include its €690 Gianvito 105 stilettos and the Bijoux high-heeled sandals that feature a puffy strap and sells for €950.

Celebrities such as Kendall Jenner and Rihanna have worn the brand’s shoes at red carpet events in the past year.

Rihanna speaks during the Super Bowl LVII Pregame & Apple Music Halftime Show press conference at Phoenix Convention Centre on February 09, 2023 in Phoenix, Arizona. She wears custom-made lace-up sandals in textured printed python by Gianvito Rossi

Rossi, who founded and leads the brand as chief executive officer, will retain a minority stake in the business. Started in 2006 in San Mauro Pascoli, Italy, the company had revenue of just under €100 million last year and is profitable, Women’s Wear Daily reported, citing unidentified sources.

Richemont said the purchase wouldn’t have an impact on its annual results in the current financial year.

In addition to Cartier and a stable of watchmakers such as Vacheron Constantin and IWC, Richemont controls the Chloé fashion brand and golf wear maker Peter Millar, among others.