One of the potential buyers for VERSACE is Marco Bizzarri, former CEO of Gucci, who recently launched his new investment company, Nessifashion. Marco Bizzarri is considering a masterstroke by acquiring Versace as part of his new entrepreneurial adventure.Barclays is overseeing the sale process of Versace and Jimmy Choo, two brands owned by Capri Holdings. Final bids are expected February 2025.
Other potential suitors include names such as Exor, Prada Group, Bahrain’s Investcorp, private equity firm Permira and Qatar owned Mayhoola. Analysts estimate that fashion icons such as Bizzarri or Prada could have an advantage thanks to their deep expertise and established networks, essential assets for the development of an iconic brand like Versace.
Rumours are also mounting about Donatella Versace’s contract, which expires in February 2025. The timing has fueled speculation about potential interest from Bizzarri and Prada, with some even raising the possibility that Dario Vitale could succeed Donatella as the house’s artistic director.
Since leaving Kering (Gucci), Marco Bizzarri has focused on developing Nessifashion, an investment company based in Rome, which he founded in February 2024. The company aims to invest in companies and offer strategic advice, according to documents filed with the Italian Chamber of Commerce.
Contacted by Reuters, Bizzarri declined to comment on his current projects, but his track record shows a growing portfolio of investments in the fashion sector. Already in 2021, he joined Orienta Capital Partners, specialised in small and medium-sized companies with high growth potential. Most recently, Nessifashion acquired 23 percent of Italian brand Elisabetta Franchi
Nessifashion takes its name from a family nickname, passed down through generations within the Bizzarri family. In addition to the financial investment, the company offers strategic advice, benefiting from Bizzarri’s vast experience in the luxury sector.
Marco Bizzarri’s investment interests are not limited to established brands. He has a minority stake in Maccapani, a brand founded in 2023 by Margherita Maccapani Missoni. Initially, his investment was made on behalf of his daughter, Federica Bizzarri, before he also contributed his expertise to guide the young company.
While Margherita Maccapani remains Missoni’s majority shareholder, the brand aims to generate a turnover of 5 million euros by 2025. These initiatives are testament to Bizzarri’s strategy, which aims to promote the growth of both emerging and established Italian fashion houses.
Versace
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