Kering, the luxury powerhouse responsible for iconic brands like Gucci and Bottega Veneta, has reinforced its presence in Italy with the establishment of a new logistics platform in Trecate, Piedmont. This move not only underlines the country’s significance as a major player in the global luxury industry but also emphasizes Kering’s unwavering commitment to Italy.
During a recent video conference, Kering’s managing director, Jean-François Palus, announced the opening of the new hub, but did not disclose the exact amount invested. Nevertheless, he did mention that this is the company’s largest investment in Italy to date. Palus went on to highlight Italy’s historical importance to Kering in terms of artistic and artisanal know-how, and now, logistics capabilities.
Ever since Kering acquired a stake in Gucci in 1999, Italy has become a crucial market for the company. This strategic move marked a turning point in Kering’s evolution into a leading player in the luxury segment and solidified its Franco-Italian identity. Currently, Kering boasts a significant presence in Italy, with four out of twelve members of its executive committee being Italian nationals.
With 11,000 employees out of its total global workforce of 38,000 based in Italy, Kering’s Italian brands make up almost half of its portfolio. Gucci, the group’s flagship brand, accounts for approximately 60% of its revenue, while Bottega Veneta has experienced remarkable growth, with revenue increasing from €30 million ($35.8 million) in 2001 to €1.2 billion in 2020. In addition to Gucci and Bottega Veneta, Kering owns other notable brands such as Brioni, Pomellato, and DoDo. It also established Kering Eyewear in Veneto back in 2014.
In addition to its existing production sites and tanneries, Kering currently operates 28 factories in Italy and plans to further expand its presence. The company has announced its intentions to open a leather workshop for Yves Saint Laurent in Scandicci, near Florence, and Balenciaga’s first production workshop in Italy, slated for 2021. These additions will bring Kering’s total number of factories in Italy to 30, similar to its competitor LVMH, which currently operates 31 production sites in the country.
Aside from its manufacturing facilities, Kering also has two design offices, an exhibition space, and two innovation hubs in Italy. These include the MIL (Materials Innovation Lab), a sustainable textiles library in Milan, and the TIL (Test & Innovation Laboratory), a center for chemical, physical, and biological analysis in Prato, Tuscany. Furthermore, the group has established 11 headquarters and offices across six regions in Italy.
Kering is deeply committed to preserving and passing on traditional craftsmanship and techniques through partnerships with schools and educational institutions. For example, the Scuola di Alta Sartoria provides training for tailors at Brioni, while Bottega Veneta collaborates with the Maestri Pellettieri to train skilled craftsmen in leather goods. Pomellato works with the Galdus Goldsmith School to train silversmiths, while Gucci has established the Gucci ArtLab, a research and development laboratory for leather goods and footwear accessories. Gucci also has the School of Love, which offers training courses for new employees.
With its remarkable presence in Italy’s luxury industry, Kering continues to reinforce its ties to the country, capitalizing on its rich heritage and exceptional workforce. The establishment of the new logistics platform in Trecate further solidifies Italy’s status as a vital market for the luxury group, while highlighting Kering’s dedication to maintaining and expanding its presence in Italy.
Useful links:
– Kering Official Website
– Gucci Official Website
