Former Gucci CEO, Patrizio di Marco, is said to be on track to become the chairman of UK luxury retailer End, according to reports. Di Marco previously held the same role at Golden Goose, another company owned by Carlyle, before it was sold. Although Carlyle has yet to confirm the appointment, if it goes ahead it could bring valuable insights and strategic direction to End as it continues to expand in the luxury retail market.
End, which started as a menswear store in Newcastle, has experienced significant growth since its inception. It has now expanded into e-commerce, serving customers in over 100 countries and offering a vast range of luxury and sports brands. While it has a physical store in London’s Soho, its primary focus is its webstore. The company’s founders, Christiaan Ashworth and John Parker, sold a controlling stake in End to Carlyle in a £750 million deal earlier this year, but retained their positions as co-chief executives.
Di Marco’s extensive experience in the luxury fashion industry makes him an ideal candidate for the role of chairman at End. His previous tenure as chairman of Golden Goose, where he helped drive the brand’s success before its sale to Permira, showcases his expertise in the field. With his background in leading iconic fashion brands like Gucci, his involvement could potentially elevate End’s brand positioning and strengthen its position among competitors.
The partnership between di Marco and Carlyle underscores the private equity company’s commitment to leveraging industry expertise and talent to drive the success of their investments. This dedication to supporting and nurturing luxury retail brands is evident in their choice to bring di Marco on board. As the luxury retail industry evolves and faces various challenges, di Marco’s leadership can help End navigate the changing landscape and seize new opportunities. Combined with Carlyle’s resources and strategic approach, this partnership could lead to exciting developments and further expansion for the company.
However, until Carlyle officially confirms di Marco’s appointment, it remains to be seen how this potential collaboration will unfold. Nonetheless, the news has generated anticipation and speculation within the fashion and retail sectors. Industry experts and enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting further updates on the future of End under di Marco’s leadership.
