Gucci is one of the most iconic luxury fashion brands in the world. People often wonder who owns Gucci and what companies are behind the brand’s success. This article explores Gucci’s ownership, history, and the brands it operates under.
History of Gucci
Gucci was founded in 1921 in Florence, Italy, by Guccio Gucci. He started the company as a small leather goods store. Inspired by luxury luggage he saw while working at hotels in London and Paris, Guccio brought a refined style to Italian craftsmanship.
During the 1930s and 1940s, the brand grew popular among wealthy travelers and the Italian elite. In the 1950s, Gucci opened its first store in New York, marking the beginning of global expansion.
Gucci became a symbol of high fashion in the 1970s and 1980s. However, internal family disputes and management issues hurt the brand in the early 1990s. Tom Ford’s creative direction in the late 1990s revived Gucci, transforming it into a modern fashion powerhouse.
Who Owns Gucci?
Gucci is wholly owned by Kering, a French multinational luxury group. Kering is publicly traded on the Euronext Paris stock exchange and is one of the world’s leading fashion conglomerates. The group owns several luxury brands in fashion, leather goods, jewelry, and watches. Gucci is one of its flagship and most profitable labels.
Parent Company: Kering
Kering was originally known as Pinault-Printemps-Redoute (PPR). It was a retail and distribution company owned by French billionaire François Pinault. Over time, PPR shifted its focus entirely to the luxury sector.
In 2013, the group rebranded to Kering, a name derived from the Breton word “ker,” meaning “home.” The rebranding reflected its strategic shift toward managing high-end luxury brands globally. Kering is controlled by the Pinault family through their investment firm Groupe Artémis.
As of now, Kering owns 100% of Gucci.
How Kering Acquired Gucci: A Historic Takeover Battle
The acquisition of Gucci by Kering is one of the most significant events in fashion business history. Here’s how it unfolded:
Initial Investment
In the late 1990s, Gucci was a hot luxury brand but faced internal strife and was under threat of a hostile takeover. In 1999, PPR (now Kering) made its first move by acquiring a 42% stake in Gucci for $3 billion. This move was supported by then-CEO Domenico De Sole and Creative Director Tom Ford.
The LVMH Conflict
Before Kering entered the picture, LVMH (led by Bernard Arnault) had secretly acquired a significant stake in Gucci. Arnault aimed to bring Gucci under LVMH, which already owned brands like Louis Vuitton, Dior, and Fendi.
However, Gucci’s management resisted LVMH’s advances. To protect its independence, Gucci sought out a white knight investor. That’s where PPR came in.
This led to a multi-year legal and business battle between LVMH and PPR, as both parties increased their stakes and fought for control.
Full Acquisition
In 2004, after several legal battles and shareholder moves, PPR finally acquired full control of Gucci by buying out the remaining shares. The deal valued Gucci at around $10 billion. Gucci was then delisted from the New York Stock Exchange and became a wholly owned subsidiary of PPR (later renamed Kering).
This acquisition marked Kering’s firm establishment in the luxury sector and gave Gucci the backing to expand globally.
Ownership Structure Today
Today, Gucci is owned and operated as a subsidiary of Kering. It does not trade as a standalone company. Kering directly manages its financial, creative, and business operations.
The Pinault family, through Groupe Artémis, owns 41.6% of Kering’s equity and controls 57.8% of the voting rights. This gives them decisive control over all major strategic decisions, including those related to Gucci.
While Kering is publicly traded, the Pinault family’s stake ensures Gucci remains under family control via the parent company.
Strategic Importance of Gucci Within Kering
Gucci is one of the top revenue-generating brands in Kering’s portfolio. At its peak in 2021, Gucci contributed nearly 50% of Kering’s total revenue. Although that figure has slightly decreased with the growth of other brands like Saint Laurent and Balenciaga, Gucci remains a strategic pillar.
Kering provides Gucci with:
- Global distribution and supply chain support
- Financial resources for expansion and marketing
- Strategic direction, including executive appointments
- Synergies with other Kering-owned brands
Gucci’s success has helped Kering become one of the top three luxury groups globally, alongside LVMH and Richemont.
Summary of Ownership Details
- Brand: Gucci
- Parent Company: Kering (France)
- Controlling Entity: Groupe Artémis (Pinault family)
- Ownership Type: Wholly owned subsidiary
- Public Listing: Gucci is not publicly listed; Kering is listed on Euronext Paris
- Voting Control: 57.8% by the Pinault family
- Initial Acquisition by PPR (Kering): 1999 (42% stake)
- Full Acquisition Completed: 2004.
Who is the CEO of Gucci?
As of January 1, 2025, Stefano Cantino serves as the CEO of Gucci, succeeding Jean-François Palus. Cantino’s appointment marks a strategic move by Gucci’s parent company, Kering, to revitalize the brand amid evolving market dynamics.
Stefano Cantino: A Brief Biography
Stefano Cantino brings over two decades of experience in the luxury fashion industry. Before joining Gucci, he spent five years at Louis Vuitton, overseeing Communications and Image. Prior to that, Cantino dedicated 20 years to the Prada Group, ascending through various roles in Marketing and Commercial, ultimately serving as Director of Communications and Marketing. He holds a degree in Political Science from the University of Turin.
Transition from Jean-François Palus
Jean-François Palus was appointed as Gucci’s interim CEO in July 2023, tasked with stabilizing the brand during a transitional period. His mandate included laying the groundwork for Gucci’s next chapter and identifying a suitable successor. Palus’s tenure was marked by decisive actions aimed at reinforcing Gucci’s market position.
Reporting Structure and Strategic Direction
In his role as CEO, Cantino reports directly to Francesca Bellettini, Deputy CEO of Kering in charge of Brand Development. This reporting structure underscores Kering’s commitment to closely guiding Gucci’s strategic initiatives. Cantino’s extensive background in brand communications and marketing positions him to lead Gucci through its next phase of growth and innovation.
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
Gucci faces several challenges, including adapting to shifting consumer preferences and navigating a competitive luxury market. Cantino’s leadership is expected to focus on rejuvenating the brand’s appeal and steering it towards sustainable growth. His experience in brand positioning and market strategy will be instrumental in addressing these challenges.
Who Controls Gucci?
As of 2025, Gucci is a wholly owned subsidiary of Kering, a French multinational luxury conglomerate. Kering’s ownership and governance structure play a pivotal role in Gucci’s strategic direction and operations.
Ownership Structure
Kering’s largest shareholder is Groupe Artémis, the investment holding company controlled by the Pinault family. As of December 31, 2023, Groupe Artémis owns 42.2% of Kering’s share capital. The remaining shares are held by institutional investors (52.7%), individual shareholders (4.2%), and employee and executive corporate officers (0.2%).
This ownership structure grants the Pinault family significant influence over Kering’s strategic decisions, including those related to Gucci.
Decision-Making Structure
The decision-making hierarchy within Gucci and its parent company Kering, is as follows:
- François-Henri Pinault: Chairman and CEO of Kering, overseeing the group’s overall strategy and operations.
- Francesca Bellettini: Deputy CEO of Kering, responsible for brand development across the group’s portfolio.
- Stefano Cantino: Appointed CEO of Gucci effective January 1, 2025. Cantino reports directly to Francesca Bellettini and is tasked with steering Gucci through its current challenges and revitalizing its market position.
- Demna: Appointed as Gucci’s Artistic Director in March 2025. Demna collaborates closely with Cantino to redefine Gucci’s creative direction.
This leadership structure ensures that strategic decisions at Gucci align with Kering’s overarching goals while allowing for brand-specific initiatives.
Strategic Implications
Gucci’s performance is critical to Kering’s financial health, contributing a significant portion of the group’s revenue. In 2024, Gucci’s revenue declined by 23% to €7.7 billion, highlighting the need for strategic adjustments. The appointments of Cantino and Demna are part of Kering’s efforts to rejuvenate Gucci’s brand appeal and market performance.
Annual Revenue and Net Worth of Gucci
In the fiscal year 2024, Gucci reported a revenue of €7.7 billion, marking a 23% decrease from the previous year. This decline was primarily attributed to reduced store traffic and a strategic shift towards more exclusive distribution channels.
As of the first quarter of 2025, Gucci’s revenue experienced a further decline of 25% year-over-year, reflecting ongoing challenges in the luxury market.
Gucci’s net worth in 2025 is estimated to range between $15 billion and $22 billion. This valuation considers the brand’s extensive portfolio, global presence, and cultural impact.
Despite recent revenue declines, Gucci’s enduring brand strength and strategic initiatives, such as sustainability efforts and market expansion, contribute to its substantial net worth.
Here is a detailed table showing Gucci’s estimated revenue and net worth over the past 10 years (2015–2025):
| Year | Revenue (USD Billion) | Estimated Net Worth (USD Billion) |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | $4.21 billion | $9.0 billion |
| 2016 | $4.75 billion | $11.34 billion |
| 2017 | $6.70 billion | $14.04 billion |
| 2018 | $8.98 billion | $16.20 billion |
| 2019 | $10.37 billion | $18.90 billion |
| 2020 | $7.99 billion | $16.20 billion (COVID impact) |
| 2021 | $10.50 billion | $19.44 billion |
| 2022 | $11.34 billion | $23.76 billion (peak valuation) |
| 2023 | $10.69 billion | $22.14 billion |
| 2024 | $8.32 billion | $18.36 billion |
| 2025* | $6.26–6.69 billion (est.) | $16.20–$23.76 billion (range) |
Brands Owned by Gucci
Over the years, Gucci has expanded its portfolio by acquiring several luxury brands. However, many of these brands are now directly owned and managed by Kering, Gucci’s parent company.
Below is an overview of the brands owned by Gucci:
| Brand / Division | Category | Description | Launched | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gucci Beauty | Cosmetics & Fragrance | Makeup and perfume line developed in collaboration with Coty Inc. | 2014 | Includes Gucci Bloom, Flora, Guilty; vintage packaging, runway-inspired looks |
| Gucci Décor | Home & Interiors | High-end furniture and décor reflecting Gucci’s artistic aesthetics | 2017 | Offers furniture, wallpapers, porcelain; maximalist design ethos |
| Gucci Vault | Digital Platform | Online concept store for vintage Gucci and collaborations | 2021 | Showcases experimental fashion, NFTs, limited-edition items |
| Gucci Osteria | Luxury Restaurants | Fine dining venture in partnership with chef Massimo Bottura | 2018 | Locations in Florence, LA, Tokyo, Seoul; Michelin-starred culinary experience |
| Gucci Kids | Children’s Fashion | Designer clothing, shoes, and accessories for children | 2010s | Same quality and branding as adult lines; includes seasonal collections |
| Gucci Eyewear | Optical & Sunglasses | Designer eyewear manufactured via Kering Eyewear | Ongoing | Branded frames with GG logo, Web stripe; premium acetate and metal frames |
| Gucci Pet Collection | Pet Accessories | Fashionable pet gear and accessories for luxury consumers | 2022 | Collars, beds, carriers; monogrammed and customizable pieces |
Gucci Beauty
Gucci Beauty is the brand’s cosmetics and fragrance division. While the line is developed in collaboration with Coty Inc., Gucci retains creative control over product design and branding.
This division includes:
- Fragrances like Gucci Bloom, Guilty, and Flora
- Makeup products such as lipsticks, foundations, and eyeliners with a vintage-inspired design
- Aesthetic direction is often overseen by the creative team at Gucci, making it a key part of the overall brand identity
Gucci Décor
Gucci Décor is Gucci’s luxury homeware and interior design collection. Launched in 2017, it reflects the brand’s signature maximalist and eclectic style.
The collection features:
- Furniture (chairs, stools, screens)
- Porcelain and dinnerware
- Decorative cushions, wallpapers, and candles
Gucci Décor is aimed at blending fashion with lifestyle, appealing to high-end consumers who want to bring Gucci’s aesthetics into their living spaces.
Gucci Vault
Gucci Vault is a digital concept store launched under the vision of former Creative Director Alessandro Michele in 2021. It serves as:
- A curated space for vintage Gucci pieces
- A platform for collaborations with emerging designers
- A digital experimentation zone blending e-commerce, NFTs, and storytelling
While it’s not a separate brand legally, Gucci Vault functions as an innovation lab and helps explore the future of luxury fashion retail.
Gucci Osteria
Gucci Osteria is a luxury restaurant concept that began in Florence and has expanded to other cities, including Los Angeles, Tokyo, and Seoul. It is run in collaboration with Michelin-starred chef Massimo Bottura.
Each Gucci Osteria:
- Reflects the brand’s aesthetic in its interiors and dining experience
- Combines fine Italian cuisine with fashion culture
- Strengthens Gucci’s presence in luxury lifestyle beyond fashion
Though primarily a hospitality venture, Gucci Osteria represents a branded extension into the culinary world.
Gucci Kids
Gucci Kids is a dedicated product line for children. It includes:
- Clothing
- Footwear
- Accessories
All products maintain the same level of craftsmanship and design detail as the main Gucci collections.
Gucci Eyewear
While Gucci Eyewear is licensed and manufactured through Kering Eyewear, it operates as a standalone product line under the Gucci brand. The eyewear collection includes:
- Sunglasses
- Optical frames
- Limited edition and seasonal styles
Gucci Eyewear combines the brand’s distinctive motifs (such as the GG logo or Web stripe) with high-end materials.
Gucci Pet Collection
Launched in 2022 and continuing into 2025, the Gucci Pet Collection is a playful and luxurious line of products for pets. It includes:
- Collars and harnesses
- Pet beds and bowls
- Travel carriers
- Customizable monogrammed items
This niche extension aims to serve Gucci’s high-income consumers who want their pets to reflect the same stylish lifestyle.
Conclusion
Gucci is fully owned by Kering, a French luxury group controlled by the Pinault family. Its growth over the past century, from a small Italian leather shop to a global fashion empire, reflects both visionary leadership and creative reinvention.
Understanding who owns Gucci helps explain its long-term strategy, innovation, and place in the competitive luxury market. While Kering is the official owner, the Pinault family ultimately holds the power.
FAQs
Who is the brand ambassador of Gucci?
The brand ambassadors of Gucci vary with seasons and campaigns. As of 2025, Harry Styles, Blake Lively, Dakota Johnson, and Jared Leto are some of the prominent faces associated with Gucci, embodying the brand’s bold and eclectic aesthetic.
Who is Gucci King?
The term “Gucci King” does not refer to a specific individual. It is often used colloquially to describe someone with immense influence or success within the fashion or luxury industry, particularly associated with the Gucci brand. However, if referring to the head of the Gucci family, it might symbolically refer to Maurizio Gucci, the former heir to the Gucci empire before his tragic murder in 1995.
Who is Gucci married to?
Gucci refers to the Gucci family and the brand, and over the years, members of the family have had high-profile marriages. Maurizio Gucci, for instance, was married to Patrizia Reggiani before their divorce and his subsequent assassination. The brand itself, however, has no “marriage” as it is a corporate entity.
Why did Gucci leave his wife?
Maurizio Gucci divorced Patrizia Reggiani in 1991, citing personal differences. The divorce was contentious and led to Reggiani being convicted of orchestrating his murder in 1995.
Does the Gucci family own Gucci anymore?
No, the Gucci family no longer owns the brand. In 1999, Gucci was acquired by Kering (then known as Pinault-Printemps-Redoute, or PPR), a French luxury goods conglomerate. Kering remains the parent company of Gucci.
Who is the heir of Gucci now?
After the tragic events surrounding Maurizio Gucci, the Gucci family’s direct heirs are no longer involved in the day-to-day operations of the brand. The closest heirs today are Maurizio’s daughters, Alessandra and Alessia Gucci, but they have no direct involvement in managing the brand. Gucci is now entirely controlled by Kering.
Who is Gucci’s current designer?
As of 2025, the Creative Director of Gucci is Demna, who took over after Alessandro Michele’s departure in 2023. Demna is known for his innovative and boundary-pushing work at Balenciaga and is now guiding Gucci’s creative direction with a modern, avant-garde vision.
Is any Gucci family still alive?
Yes, members of the Gucci family are still alive, but they are no longer directly involved in the ownership or management of the Gucci brand. The most notable family members alive include Alessandra and Alessia Gucci, daughters of Maurizio Gucci.
Is Aldo a Gucci brand?
Aldo Gucci was a prominent member of the Gucci family who served as the company’s president in the 1950s. However, Aldo is not a brand under Gucci. The brand itself is still Gucci, but Aldo was instrumental in the brand’s expansion.
Who owns Gucci perfume?
Gucci perfumes are owned by Kering. The fragrance division of Gucci is developed in collaboration with Coty Inc., which manufactures and distributes Gucci’s fragrance lines, while Gucci controls the branding and creative direction.
Who owns Gucci shoes?
Gucci shoes, like other Gucci products, are owned by Kering. Kering oversees all aspects of Gucci, including its footwear line, which is designed and produced under the brand’s luxury fashion umbrella.
Which company owns Gucci?
Gucci is owned by Kering, a multinational luxury conglomerate based in France. Kering acquired Gucci in 1999, and it remains the parent company of the fashion house.
Where was Gucci founded?
Gucci was founded in Florence, Italy, in 1921 by Guccio Gucci. The brand initially began as a small leather goods store and quickly expanded into a symbol of Italian luxury.
Who owns Gucci clothing?
Gucci clothing is owned by Kering. The brand’s fashion lines, including its iconic ready-to-wear collections, are designed, produced, and sold by Gucci under the ownership of Kering.
Who owns Gucci eyewear?
Gucci eyewear is owned by Kering but produced in collaboration with Kering Eyewear, a division of Kering that handles all eyewear licensing and production for its luxury brands, including Gucci.
Who owns Gucci now?
Gucci is owned by the French luxury group Kering. The Pinault family, through Groupe Artémis, controls Kering.
Is Gucci still an Italian company?
Gucci was founded in Italy and still has its design headquarters in Florence. But it is now owned by a French company.
Who founded Gucci?
Guccio Gucci founded the brand in Florence in 1921.