BREAKING: Capri Holdings Sells Versace to Prada Group
Source: Capri Holdings Limited
LONDON — Capri Holdings Limited (NYSE: CPRI), a global fashion luxury group, today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to sell Versace to Prada S.p.A. (HKSE: 1913) for $1.375 billion in cash subject to certain adjustments. The transaction is expected to close in the second half of calendar 2025, subject to customary closing conditions including regulatory approvals.
Founded in 1978 in Milan, Versace is one of the leading international fashion design houses and epitome of Italian luxury worldwide. Building on a remarkable brand awareness, Versace stands as a distinctive asset in the luxury landscape. Deeply rooted in the history of fashion, the brand displays strong potential to read contemporaneity and marked sensibility in capturing and anticipating the spirit of today’s and future society. With its highly recognisable aesthetic, the brand constitutes a strongly complementary addition to the Prada Group’s portfolio and displays significant untapped growth potential leveraging multiple value creation levers. Within the Prada Group, Versace will maintain its creative DNA and cultural authenticity, while benefitting from the full strength of the Group’s consolidated platform, including industrial capabilities, retail execution and operational expertise.
“We are delighted to welcome Versace to the Prada Group and to build a new chapter for a brand with which we share a strong commitment to creativity, craftsmanship and heritage. We aim to continue Versace’s legacy celebrating and re-interpreting its bold and timeless aesthetic; at the same time, we will provide it with a strong platform, reinforced by years of ongoing investments and rooted in longstanding relationships. Our organisation is ready and well positioned to write a new page in Versace’s history, drawing on the Group’s values while continuing to execute with confidence and rigorous focus.”
John D. Idol, the Company's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, said, “Versace is an iconic Italian fashion luxury house founded 46 years ago by Gianni Versace and further developed under the creative vision of Donatella Versace. Over the last six years, we have made tremendous progress in repositioning the brand to place greater emphasis on its luxury heritage and exceptional craftsmanship. Through elevated product, marketing and store enhancements, the brand is now well positioned for sustainable long-term growth. We are confident that Prada Group is the perfect company to further guide Versace into its next era of growth and success.”
Mr. Idol continued, “This transaction reflects our commitment to increase shareholder value, strengthen our balance sheet and power the future growth of Michael Kors and Jimmy Choo. We will continue to execute on the strategic initiatives shared at our recent Investor Day and remain confident in the long-term growth potential of Michael Kors and Jimmy Choo.”
Transaction details
Under the terms of the agreement, the Prada Group will acquire 100% of Versace for a total Enterprise Value of €1.25 bn ($1.375 bn2) on a debt and cash free basis. The final cash consideration will be determined at closing and is subject to adjustments based on the Net Working Capital and Net Financial Position. The consideration includes significant Tax Losses carry forward; additionally, Capri Holdings will fund certain transaction expenses. The transaction will be funded by €1.5 bn of new debt composed of €1.0 bn term-loan and €0.5 bn bridge facility. The Group retains significant balance sheet flexibility considering the cash balance and undrawn committed facilities. The transaction has been approved by both Prada S.p.A.’s and Capri Holdings’ Boards of Directors and is expected to close over the course of the second half of 2025, subject to customary closing conditions, including the receipt of required regulatory approvals.
Transaction Rationale
The sale of Versace is expected to deliver a number of benefits, including:
Strengthen Capri Holdings’ balance sheet
Enable Capri Holdings to make accelerated strategic investments in Michael Kors
Increase shareholder value
These transaction proceeds will be used to support Capri Holdings’ capital allocation priorities, including:
Business investments
Debt reduction
Future share repurchases
About Capri Holdings Limited
Capri Holdings is a global fashion luxury group consisting of iconic brands Versace, Jimmy Choo and Michael Kors. Our commitment to glamorous style and craftsmanship is at the heart of each of our luxury brands. We have built our reputation on designing exceptional, innovative products that cover the full spectrum of fashion luxury categories. Our strength lies in the unique DNA and heritage of each of our brands, the diversity and passion of our people and our dedication to the clients and communities we serve. Capri Holdings Limited is publicly listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker CPRI.
About Versace
Versace has long been recognized as one of the world’s leading international fashion design houses and is synonymous with Italian glamour and style. Founded in 1978 in Milan, Versace is known for its iconic and unmistakable style and unparalleled craftsmanship. With nearly five decades of iconic fashion moments and innovative design, the brand continues to lead in both fashion and culture. Over the past several decades, the House of Versace has grown globally from its roots in haute couture, expanding into the design, manufacturing, distribution and retailing of ready-to-wear, accessories, footwear, eyewear, watches, jewelry, fragrance and home furnishings. Versace distributes its products through a worldwide distribution network, which includes boutiques in some of the world’s most fashionable cities, its e-commerce sites, as well as through the most prestigious department and specialty stores worldwide.
