Stella McCartney founder acquires 50% stake from Kering, takes full control of brand
Ms. Stella McCartney and Kering [EPA: KER], the listed French luxury retailer, jointly announced that they have entered into an agreement for the sale and purchase of Kering's 50% stake in the UK-based luxury lifestyle brand Stella McCartney Ltd to Ms. Stella McCartney, who will thus become the sole owner of her brand in its entirety.
The cooperation between Stella McCartney Ltd and Kering will continue over time with the aim of guaranteeing a smooth transition in order to minimize disruptions and maintain the brand’s momentum in the market. Ms. Stella McCartney will remain a Board member of the Kering Foundation, which is dedicated to stopping violence against women and improving women’s lives. Kering and Stella McCartney will continue to collaborate closely in the field of sustainable fashion.
According to the latest accounts Stella McCartney posted a GBP 41.7m turnover, and a profit of GBP 9.5m in 2016.
Stella McCartney commented: “It is the right moment to acquire the full control of the company bearing my name. This opportunity represents a crucial patrimonial decision for me. I am extremely grateful to Francois-Henri Pinault and his family and everyone at the Kering group for everything we have built together in the last 17 years. I look forward to the next chapter of my life and what this brand and our team can achieve in the future.”
Francois-Henri Pinault, Chairman and CEO of Kering, added: “It is the right time for Stella to move to the next stage. Kering is a luxury group that empowers creative minds and helps disruptive ideas become reality. I am extremely proud of what Kering and Stella McCartney have accomplished together since 2001. I would like to thank Stella and her team wholeheartedly for everything they have brought to Kering - far beyond business. Stella knows she can always count on my friendship and support.”