Zara invests in 238 million euro headquarters

Image: Zara Zara has invested 238 million euros into a new headquarters that will house the Zara sales and design teams within Inditex’s complex in Arteixo. Construction on the new headquarters will begin in January, subject to the necessary permissions, and are expected to last around two years. The new facilities, which are being designed with a focus on their lines, broad open spaces, energy efficiency, and sustainability credentials, are meant to reinforce the horizontal work dynamics between designers, patternmakers, and sales professionals, underpinned by creativity and articulated around open collaboration and communication. The new five-story building (with another two underground floors for parking) will complement the visual identity of the adjacent offices, which accommodate the zara.com operations. Zara to get multi-million euro headquarters in Artexio The building will be predominantly white and feature large horizontal windows with protruding eaves to provide protection from the sun while flooding the interiors with natural light. A structural trellis will introduce pillars generating huge open spaces that will further facilitate the dynamic workflows between the various departments. The plans, designed by Batlleiroig, the architecture firm which was responsible for the recent expansion of Zara’s facilities in Arteixo and several of the brands’ head offices, is based on an orderly and structured design of flexible workspaces that lend themselves to easy and multiple reconfigurations. The proportions and dimensions of this huge building give it a ‘shape coefficient’ which, together with its highly insulated façades and roofing, reduce its energy consumption and facilitate energy self-sufficiency, thanks to energy just taken from three new wind turbines located in Coruña’s Outer Port. The new building will be fitted with a next-generation facility management system to ensure that its various elements always operate in efficient harmony, adapting them continuously in response to indoor and outdoor temperatures and air quality. By using technology in the design phase, the impact of the construction process will be minimized in the interest of sustainability. That industrialization, coupled with intensive use of recycled materials, will reduce the works’ carbon footprint and waste generation. It will comply with the stringent requirements of the sustainable building benchmark US Green Building Council (USGBC) –and Zara hopes to achieve its highest certification, LEED Platinum. Each of the sales teams’ floors will have two large, connected work areas. Two big longitudinal outdoor areas adjacent to the east and north façades will add to the existing square outside the dotcom building, promoting users’ health and wellbeing, in keeping with the strategy embarked on at Inditex’s headquarters in 2018 of upgrading and integrating the complex’s outdoor spaces. A grid of walkways will connect various parts of the new building with the adjacent buildings to ensure internal connectivity at the complex and optimal interaction between the various departments.
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Iconic retailer Selfridges sold to Thai and Austrian joint venture

Image: Selfridges via Pexels The Canadian billionaire family behind the revamp of Selfridges have sold the iconic department store to a Thai and Austrian joint venture. The Weston family sold the British store chain to Thai conglomerate Central Group and Austrian Signa Holding, who each own 50 percent. The group’s other retail division, which includes Arnotts and Brown Thomas in Ireland and de Bijenkorf in the Netherlands were included in the deal. Holt Refrew, the high-end Canadian department store chain, will remain under Weston ownership. Value of the sale not disclosed The sale, confirmed by Bloomberg early on Friday, is thought to be valued at 4 billion pounds, although terms of the sale were not disclosed. Galen Weston bought the Oxford street flagship in 2003 for 600 million pounds. The Central Group is Thailand’s largest retail operator, owned by the wealthy Chirathivat family. The Group’s international portfolio includes Italy’s Rinascente, Denmark’s Illum, Germany’s KaDeWe and Globus in Switzerland. The latter two are owned in partnership with Signa. Signa, a retail, real estate and media group, has assets in New York’s Art Deco Chrysler Building and Hotel Bauer in Venice. The company’s global real estate assets are valued at over 24 billion euros said the Financial Times. Selfridges, which outright owns the properties of its UK stores, remains one of London’s most sought after fashion destinations, a temple of experiential retailing that many have tried, and failed, to copy. “As family businesses, Central and Signa will focus on delivering exceptional and inclusive store and digital experiences for both local residents and overseas visitors alike, as we seek to create a world-leading luxury, retail company,” said Tos Chirathivat, executive chair and chief executive of Central Group in a statement. Selfridges was founded in 1908 by American businessman Harry Gordon Selfridge. His story was filmed for a television miniseries in 2016 called Mr Selfridge. The Selfridge Group currently operates 28 stores worldwide. Changes in management have not been announced.
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Adore Me launches technology brand for operating platform

Image: Adore Me Lingerie label Adore Me has introduced a new technology group, Adore Me Tech, developed to build upon the Adore Me Operating Platform. Considering themselves both a data-driven technology brand and a lingerie brand, Adore Me stated that it follows a belief that “technology must be embedded into any and every business function”. The Adore Me Tech launch involves the use of proprietary software and technology that can be used in the expansion into new markets, products and business models. The brand’s current operating platform utilises 15 internal tools, developed to support solutions for current and short-term business challenges. Examples of the tools include a scale-up procurement inventory management system, a product order tool, subscription box method and a product creation tool. “We hypothesise that as the world around us continues to change, we’ll need to change the way we approach our planning, automation and policies,” said Romain Liot, co-founder and chief operating officer, in a release. “The right framework will be our catalyst in business growth, and the Adore Me Operating Platform is a huge step in the right direction.”
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Selfridges could close four billion pound deal with Thailand Central Group

Image: Selfridges Luxury department store Selfridges is reportedly close to closing a four billion pound deal with Thailand’s Central Group, with an official announcement supposedly to come in a matter of days. Word on the acquisition has been floating around since the start of December, following a report by The Times that stated the current owners of the retailer, Canada’s Weston family, had agreed on terms with Central Group in November. Following the report, an associate from a retail subsidiary of the firm denied the news, stating at the time: “The company would like to clarify that the company is not currently involved with the transaction reported in the news.” Reports yet to be confirmed New information issued by Reuters has now come to light, with source’s close to the media platform stating a deal is on the verge of closing. According to the publication, the Thai group’s main department store unit, Central Retail Corp Pcl, could potentially take a partial stake in Selfridges, however was still mulling the offer. Additionally, The Times also reported on the possible finalisation of the acquisition, further announcing that Central Group had possibly linked with Austria’s Signa Group for the deal. Both Central Group and Selfridges have not yet responded to requests for comment, at this time. Speculation regarding the sale has been growing since initial reports in June, which suggested the family had already received a four billion pound takeover offer for its UK properties. The Weston’s took over the retailer back in 2003, for 598 million pounds, driven by Galen Weston, who died in April this year.
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PETA renews action against LVMH with new investigation

Image: LVMH People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) has revealed a new investigation into the LVMH supply chain, exposing concerning conditions of animals used for some of the brand’s products. The luxury conglomerate, which owns the likes of Dior and Celine, has been called out by the Asian branch of the animal welfare group for the conditions at two of its Indonesian slaughterhouses, at which a number of workers were filmed bashing live snakes with hammers. In the disturbing video, pythons were shown hung up and filled with water in order to stretch their skin out. They are then stunned with a hammer and decapitated while still alive, according to the organisation. According to Dr. Clifford Warrick, a reptile expert that reviewed the footage, the method is considered “inhumane and unacceptable by international standards” and “would result in extreme stress and pain in the snakes.” In 2016, LVMH was already targeted by PETA, with an investigation into crocodile and ostrich farms linked as suppliers to the fashion house. Footage obtained by the organisation unveiled distressing conditions the animals were housed in, as well as cruel methods of slaughter endured. The organisation is urging LVMH to immediately cease selling exotic skins altogether, concluding: “Rather than exploring lush jungles and swamps and experiencing all the sensory pleasures that they’re so keenly attuned to, those in LVMH’s supply chain are abused and tormented just to make purses and shoes.”
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Kate Hudson transitions to advisory role for Fabletics

Image: Fabletics Activewear brand Fabletics has announced that co-founder Kate Hudson will be transitioning from principal face of the brand to an advisory role, eight years on from the brand’s founding. The announcement comes as the company looks towards “its next chapter and continued growth”, with Hudson to continue bringing her expertise as a strategic director, as well as remaining as a shareholder in the company. “When we first started out, the challenge was to build a successful company which filled the void in the market for premium quality, fashion-forward activewear at affordable prices, while staying true to our social values of inclusivity and community building,” said Huson, in a release. “As my role becomes less focused on being in front of the camera to becoming more of a strategic advisor, my passion for and investment in our mission is as strong as day one.” The company has recently executed an expansion in Europe, following the opening of its London and Berlin stores. It also looks to continue growing its omnichannel offering through in-store technologies and digitised fitting room experiences. In addition to Fabletics, Hudson has continued to drive start-ups, including, nutritional powder brand, In Bloom and King St. Vodka.
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Informa Markets Fashion Announces Edwina Kulego in New Leadership Role

Edwina Kulego. Image courtesy of Informa Markets Informa Markets Fashion, the host of international fashion trade and sourcing events including Project, Magic, and Coterie, has established a new role at the company entitled Vice President of International and Business Development. Appointed to the position charged with managing sponsorships, new business opportunities, and international development is Edwina Kulego, who returns to IMF after overseeing all aspects of business at Liberty Fairs, the contemporary fashion and lifestyle trade show. In commenting on her new role, Kulego expressed delight in re-joining the company where she began her career and acknowledged the importance of solidarity during these unpredictable times. “The world as we know it has changed significantly over the past two years and the importance of strengthening and supporting our global community is even more imperative,” she said. Kulego, who started at Project as an intern and worked her way up, can draw on a decade of leadership experience within the industry as she focuses her team on growing the company globally through new markets, strategic projects, and expanding both live and digital events. Prior to her time at Liberty, she worked to create the first International Business Development Department at Informa Markets in 2016, proceeded to launch what would become the first Project Tokyo, and has demonstrated expertise in advancing omnichannel solutions for the fashion B2B industry. In addition to her work traveling the world to make meaningful partnerships in fashion, Kulego founded her own makeup company in 2017 as another way to generate a positive impact. Essentials By Edwina, is a vegan, cruelty-free beauty brand designed for women of color to help balance the lack of diversity in the beauty industry.
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Controversial fast fashion retailer Shein launches 10 million dollar support fund

Image: Shein Shein, the controversial fast fashion retailer headquartered in Guangzhou, has launched a 10 million dollar fund to support global non-profit organizations focused on empowering entrepreneurs, supporting underserved communities, ensuring animal welfare, and promoting the circular economy.  While Shein has been criticised for not being transparent regarding any of these pillars in its own supply chain, where it often drops 1,000 styles per day at rock-bottom prices, the company is keen to be seen ‘doing good.’ In a press release Shein announced the first recipient of its funding as Vital Voices, a global NGO that invests in female leaders, to provide support with a two-year 500,000 dollar partnership. Other causes are yet to be announced. “Women’s participation in every sector is more critical than ever and changemakers in Vital Voices’ network are charting a new course for women’s leadership. We are thrilled to partner with Shein as they invest in women with strong roots in community, bold ideas that bridge divides and a strong commitment to paying it forward,” said Alyse Nelson, President and Chief Executive Officer of Vital Voices Global Partnership. “Empowering individuals and giving back to those in need has been part of our company DNA since day one,” said Molly Miao, Chief Marketing Officer at SHEIN. “Organizations like Vital Voices are critical given the challenges of inequity globally, and the reinforcement of barriers to economic development. In addition to our partners at Vital Voices, we hope the SHEIN Cares Fund will further support many organizations around the world who are on the front lines of tackling tough challenges.”
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Jendaya launches focusing on African businesses

Image: jendaya.com Business of Fashion has reported that Jendaya, an Africa-focused luxury e-commerce platform, has officially launched. The platform is being led by Ayo Rufai, Kemi Adetu, and Teni Sagoe. The company’s products ship to Africa, Asia, the U.K., the U.S., and Europe. “Jendaya is the only e-commerce marketplace that uses the social power of community and culture to help global shoppers discover diverse designers,” Rufai said to Business of Fashion. The company is being advised by Federico Marchetti, the former chairman and CEO of Yoox Net-a-Porter Group. The company’s board of advisors also includes Rotimi Akinyemiju, former COO of Moda Operandi, and Omoyemi Akerele, founder of Lagos Fashion Week. Jendaya’s website describes it as “Africa’s ultimate luxury shopping destination.” Currently, the website stocks 60 brands with plans to continue adding brand partners as they expand.
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Roland DG unveils dress created by new textile printer

Image: Roland DG Roland DG has unveiled a press release printed on a dress by its newest textile printer, the Texart XT-64OS-F. The dress, sewn in London and printed in Milan, utilises the white ink and bright colour capabilities the machine offers, as well as the ability to print text. “We worked with our Italian textile customers to design the machine, so it only felt right to continue our collaboration with industry creatives to bring the dress release to life. We hugely enjoyed working with talented designers, seamstresses, photographers and models to help turn our vision into reality, and we hope our customers feel inspired to make their own unique garments as a result,” said EMEA marketing director of Roland DG, Stephen Davis. The company also collaborated with designer Fabia Goff in order to create the pattern. Goff, who previously worked with brands like John Lewis and Laura Ashley said that she wanted “the pattern to be on trend, incorporating the bright colours we will be seeing on catwalks throughout 2022.” The new textile machine is aimed at apparel print houses and garment manufacturers. It will allow fashion houses to create prototypes of clothing, or create one off pieces for a show. Through using the print-on-demand garments, the textile machine will reduce garment waste and help meet growing demand for short-run printing in the apparel and textile industry. “We hope our customers feel inspired to make their own unique garments as a result,” said Davis.
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ThredUp/And Just Like That Costume Designers' partnership shows how far secondhand clothes have come

ThredUP Last week saw the release of And Just Like That, a reboot of HBO’s comedy series, Sex and the City, which ran for six seasons from 1998 to 2004, won four Emmy awards and spawned two movies. Today sees the launch of a special shopping partnership between the costume designers of And Just Like That, Molly Rogers and Danny Santiago, and ThredUP, the online resale platform which provided much of the new show’s wardrobe. Perhaps the most remarkable thing about the partnership, which presents three online storefronts full of hundreds of thrifted styles including items straight from the show, is that it demonstrates how far pre-worn clothes have come in the twenty some years since the original show’s heyday. Back then, Carrie, Miranda, Charlotte, and Samantha––who does not appear in the revival––were in their 30s and 40s and their New York City lives revolved around runway labels, exclusive restaurant reservations and the hottest after parties. The evolution of style icon Carrie Bradshaw The legendary stylist Patrica Field styled the looks which rubber-stamped some of the show’s most memorable moments particularly for the main character, Carrie, played by Sarah Jessica Parker. There was Carrie fishing cigarettes out of her Dior Saddle bag after browsing in Barney’s; maxing out her credit card in Dolce & Gabbana; shoe shopping at Manolo Blahnik; slipping into acres of smoke-hued Atelier Versace tulle for date night in Paris; sheathed in John Galliano for Christian Dior newsprint dress to apologize to another woman for stealing her husband; tottering into the maternity ward to visit her pregnant friend in rose-colored Christian Louboutin sandals; and freshly unboxing fuchsia Oscar de la Renta for an evening at the Met. Yes, Field also selected significant vintage pieces to create Carrie’s clashing high/low, uptown meets downtown quirky look, but newness was the driving force behind Sex and the City‘s success. Vintage was integrated into the designer wardrobe, and indie labels, Chinatown namesake necklaces or luxury purses, could became overnight sensations when Carrie sported them. Sex and the City represented aspirational living at its pre-recession peak. But the fashion world of the 1990s and early 2000s was an exclusive world with little to no diversity, barely any online shopping, no social media. “When I first started styling over 20 years ago, our only thrifting option was to scour the crowded racks of NYC consignment shops,” said Molly Rogers, who began her career with Patricia Field. “It’s amazing to see how resale platforms like ThredUP have made it that much easier to source secondhand styles.” ThredUP What’s old is new in ThredUP And Just Like That partnership Each ThredUP closet displays three distinct styles to shop which understandably leads to the assumption that each one represents a character from the show. The Statement Maker offers the opportunity to create unexpected looks that somehow work with secondhand brands such as Nanushka, Alice + Olivia, and Manolo Blahnik—inevitably consumers will assume this reflect’s Carrie’s aesthetic as she was inextricably linked to her Manolos. The Polished Romantic is bright is bright, feminine, and preppy, strong on florals and frills, with brands such as Chanel, Rebecca Taylor, and Burberry, thus echoing Charlotte’s style. And the Laid-Back Power Dresser who doesn’t compromise comfort for style, has a penchant for relaxed tailoring, favoring brands such as Loewe, Vince, and Marc Jacobs, is giving strong Miranda vibes. However labels are less acceptable now than twenty years ago and the partnership addresses today’s a la carte sensibilities. “It’s not about dressing like a specific character, but really about being inspired by our work to identify your own personal style,” said And Just Like That co-costume designer, Santiago. “I believe fashion should be accessible and fun for everyone and reflect each person’s individuality, and that’s exactly what we hope to convey with this collaboration. I’m proud that these ThredUP collections showcase stylish assortments across every price point and size. And yes, there are thrifted Manolos!” Carrie, and to a lesser extent the other characters, inspired a generation of designers, stylists and consumers with the looks she wore. She represented the fantasy of fashion and the joy of dressing up before pandemic-induced working from home killed glamor and glorified sweats. Carrie showed up to go shopping, she dressed for the occasion of it, whereas today we shop in our pajamas without moving from the couch. “Shopping is my cardio,” she once said. A ThredUP 2021 report found that 33 million consumers bought secondhand apparel for the first time in 2020, and 76 percent of those first-time buyers plan to increase their spend on secondhand in the next 5 years, while its recent Thrift for the Holidays Report revealed that 62 percent of consumers believe buying secondhand apparel/fashion gifts are more socially acceptable now than 5 years ago, demonstrating that any remaining stigma around wearing or gifting pre-worn is lifting. The elevation of secondhand is inkeeping with our more enlightened society driven by diversity, inclusivity and sustainability, all words little used 20 years ago. “At ThredUP, our mission is to inspire a new generation to think secondhand first, and we admire Molly and Danny’s commitment to more sustainable styling through thrift,” Erin Wallace, ThredUP’s VP of Integrated Marketing said in a statement. “Television is increasingly driving shopping trends, and this collaboration makes it possible for consumers to thrift the look in a responsible, wallet-friendly way.” 100 percent of the proceeds of the ThredUP And Just Like That partnership will go to the Willie Garson Fund which directly supports connecting children in foster care with loving families. Garson who played Stanford Blatch, Carrie’s loyal friend with the biting wit, died during the filming of And Just Like That. Fashion editor Jackie Mallon is also an educator and author of Silk for the Feed Dogs, a novel set in the international fashion industry
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Falke launches sportswear collaboration with Rowbots

Image: Falke; Falke x Rowbots #SwitchOn collection Falke has teamed up with mindset-led fitness brand Rowbots, co-founded by footballer Gareth Bale on a men’s and women’s capsule sportswear collection for autumn/winter 2021. The collaboration aims to redefine the sports industry by inspiring the fitness community “to move better, feel better and perform better,” utilising Falke’s long-term research in knitting technology and biomechanics to create the perfect sports apparel. The Falke x Rowbots #SwitchOn collection features socks, T-shirts, shorts, pullovers, sports bras and tights designed to cater for all workouts in black and grey colourways with both brands logos. The technical clothing collection aims to “move with you as you perform” and has been made with performance fabrics that offer the highest level of comfort by effective moisture management and temperature regulation. Image: Falke; Falke x Rowbots #SwitchOn collection Highlights include the parachute long tights, which are elegant sports trousers that guarantee the best freedom of movement by avoiding irritating seams and are made of high-quality polyamide yarn ensuring ideal anti-pilling properties and a comfortable texture. The core challenge shorts are made of an elastic and easy-care functional fabric, feature sweat absorbing terry texture on the inside to offer the highest level of comfort, as well as unrestricted freedom of movement and extremely quick re-drying. Image: Falke; Falke x Rowbots #SwitchOn collection While the Falke x Rowbots RU4 socks are described as “all-rounders,” with cushioning to protect against blisters by reducing pressure points and the Madison bra-top features a seamless finish and a dual-layer construction that makes it extremely fast-drying, while the compression fit ensures superb support. Andre Brockert, business unit director at Falke ergonomic sport system, said in a statement: “Performance-oriented products for even more workout fun, that’s what the collection by Rowbots, Gareth Bale and Falke promises. We are pleased to present a joint fitness collection with these strong partners.” The Falke x Rowbots is available online at falke.com and both Rowbots studios in London. Prices start from 17 pounds. Image: Falke; Falke x Rowbots #SwitchOn collection
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Podcast: Re;code, Everything is Material

Joshua Williams In this episode, part of our monthly brand feature series, we learn about Re;code, a Seoul, Korea based company redefining the fashion design process by reusing a vast array of materials.
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Hush delivers record revenue and profits

Image: Hush Women’s fashion and lifestyle brand Hush has reported record financial results for the year to March 27, 2021, and continued growth in the first half of FY22 to September 25, 2021. FY21 operating profit increased by 169 percent year-on-year to 11.4 million pounds, compared to 4.2 million pounds in 2020, as consumers accelerated shift to online shopping due to the pandemic, which Hush states resulted in “top line growth, combined with exceptional lower marketing and retail costs”. The business delivered a 23 percent increase in sales to 58 million pounds, driven primarily by continued growth through the brand’s e-commerce website and those of its digital partners, which increased by 43 percent. E-commerce sales represented 95 percent of total sales to March, compared with 81 percent the year before. Image: Hush Hush notes that it delivered a “strong performance,” especially when you take into account the impact of Covid-19 and the associated trading restrictions on the brand’s pop-up stores and retail partner concessions during the year. Despite those closures, the brand’s customer database grew by 25 percent, and the number of new customers introduced to the business was up by 54 percent, which it states reflects the effectiveness of Hush’s digital-led marketing strategy. Hush chief executive, Kate Bartman, said in a statement: “We’re delighted to report a record financial performance in the year to March 2021, with strong sales and profit growth despite the impact of Covid-19 on some of our sales channels. “Our business has more than trebled in size over the past four years which is a testament to the strength of our brand, our high-quality products and excellent customer engagement. With this strong momentum, as well as the exciting investments we have made in our people and business, we are very excited about our long-term growth plans.” Hush reports record FY21 financial results and continued growth in the first half of FY22 Image: Hush Hush also adds that it has “continued the strong momentum” from FY21 in the first six months of the current financial year despite the unpredictable trading backdrop, with revenues up 20 percent against the prior year and up 42 percent on a two-year basis. This strong performance continues to be driven by high levels of customer acquisition and engagement, further sales growth through the brand’s e-commerce channel, and the positive performance experienced since the re-opening of Hush’s UK retail concessions. Bartman added: “We’re pleased to say that our momentum has continued into the current year against a challenging retail backdrop, and with our growing and loyal customer base, exciting new collections, and the strong performance of our bricks and mortar retail channels to complement our rapidly growing digital sales, we are very well positioned as we enter the Christmas trading period. “Above all else, the brand’s continued success is down to our people. We have retained and recruited exceptionally talented people and continued to promote our strong ‘one team’ culture while navigating the novelties of hybrid home and office working. This performance belongs to every member of our amazing team.” Image: Hush In March 2020, Hush also received the first external investment in the company’s 18-year history from True Global, Europe’s only retail and consumer sector private equity specialist, which led to the fashion brand investing in a number of senior appointments during the period. Bartman who was commercial director was promoted to chief executive, while Sheila McKain was promoted to chief product officer. Don Davis joined from Asos as chief financial officer, Peter Davies from Superdry as chief technology officer, and Andrew Woodward from Selfridges as chief marketing officer. In addition, retail industry leader Susanne Given was named as Hush’s first-ever non-executive chair in November 2020 to support the brand’s long-term growth ambitions.
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Ted Baker makes board changes following death of chairman

Image: Ted Baker Retailer Ted Baker has issued an update in relation to its board following the sudden death of its chair, John Barton, on December 6. The company has confirmed that a formal search for a new chair is underway, with Helena Feltham remaining as interim chair. Additionally, Andrew Jennings, who previously intended to step down from the board on January 29, has agreed to stay on as a non-executive director until the 2022 annual general meeting. He will also continue his role as chair of the Remuneration Committee. Meg Lustman will assume the role of non-executive director responsible for employee engagement, effective from January 29. The role is currently held by Helena Feltham.
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Self-Portrait’s SP Collection acquires luxury brand Roland Mouret

Image: Han Chong SP Collection, a new holding company established by Self-Portrait founder Han Chong, has acquired luxury label Roland Mouret following its administration filing last month. The brand will join Self Portrait in the group set up by Chong, established to “discover, nurture and develop best in class creativity and design”. The acquisition of the brand will consist of its intellectual property and the assets of 19 RM Limited. Staff and retail are not a part of the offer. The first collection by Roland Mouret is expected to be Resort 2023, set to be presented in June 2022 and available for purchase by November 2022. As part of the acquisition, founder Roland Mouret will take on a new role as founder and creative chair. “I am very honoured to have the chance to take this luxury brand on the next stage of its journey,” said Chon, in a release. “As part of SP Collection, Roland Mouret will benefit from the infrastructure and resources necessary to ensure it can flourish in the coming years. The Roland Mouret brand already has a powerful and respected legacy and I’m excited to see how we can develop it for luxury customers around the world. I am also delighted that Roland himself will be a part of this next chapter.” Mouret also expressed his satisfaction with the acquisition, noting Chong’s “passion for the Roland Mouret brand”. The label filed for administration back in late November, following the rapid decline of the events and special occasions industry affected by the pandemic. A report by the Financial Times stated the brand’s sales plummeted by 80 percent at the start of the pandemic, further suggesting it could take five years to fully recover.
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Aeffe managing director exits

Aeffe SpA, the parent company of brands including Alberta Ferretti, Moschino, and Philosophy di Lorenzo Serafini, has consensually terminated its relationship with former managing director Marcella Tassinari. Aeffe CEO Simone Badioli will take over as ad interim managing director. Rather than appointing a new general managing director, Aeffe has opted to set up an executive committee that will include Badioli, Massimo Ferretti, and Giancarlo Galeone. Ferretti is currently executive president of Aeffe. In a statement, Ferretti said, “I would like to thank Mr. Tassinari for his professional contribution, his dedication and his support offered to the achievement of the goals reached, to date, by Aeffe S.p.A., and by the Group. We therefore wish Mr. Tassinari all successes in his future career. The transition of the company projects will be guaranteed by the executive committee.” As part of his termination agreement Tassinari will receive 900,000 euros, 890,000 of which are an incentive to leave, and 10,000 are a novative transaction to be paid on February 10, 2022. He will also still receive the use of a corporate car.
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