London-based luxury lingerie brand La Perla is currently facing a winding-up petition from HMRC, the UK’s tax authority. Efforts to recover the unpaid taxes have been unsuccessful, leading to the petition. This follows several other petitions filed in recent months, which have since been resolved. La Perla is also being sued by consultancy firm HSO Enterprise Solutions for £700,000 in unpaid invoices.
However, La Perla’s owner, Lars Windhorst, believes that the debt issue is close to being resolved. The company has submitted and received approval for a new business plan, and the necessary funds are now available to settle all outstanding payments. Despite incurring losses over the past four years and having a total debt of over €330 million, Windhorst is optimistic about the future of La Perla.
There are indications that new investment may be on the horizon for the brand. Reports suggest that a stake of up to 10% in La Perla may be sold, and Tennor Holding, Windhorst’s company, may also invest more capital. Earlier this year, Windhorst met with officials in the Italian region of Emilia-Romagna, where La Perla’s factory is located, to discuss a major financing operation.
La Perla is a significant employer in the region, with the majority of its jobs in Italy being at the Bologna production plant. Tennor Holding recently announced an agreement with certain material creditors to restructure the financial indebtedness of the Tennor Group and its affiliated entities, indicating efforts are being made to address the company’s debt situation and secure its future.
Despite its financial challenges, La Perla remains committed to its operations and growth. With a long history and reputation for luxury lingerie, the brand will continue working towards resolving its debts and pursuing new investments, ensuring its legacy in the fashion industry.
Useful links:
1. La Perla Official Website
2. HM Revenue & Customs Official Website
