MILAN — The famous French men’s brand Zilli has been acquired by two investment funds determined to lead the 50-plus-year-old company into the future.
The Dubai-based investment fund Negma Group, founded by Elaf Gassman, and Futuro all’Impresa, or FAI, a Milan-based company specializing in financial advice and investments, took over the company created in 1965 by Alain Schimel, credited with d pioneered and introduced luxury leather jackets.
The brand’s offering encompasses a wide range of product categories, from clothing to leather goods and footwear to eyewear and fragrances, as well as a selection of homewares.
Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.
“Zilli is a high value company with considerable human capital. This is a long-term strategic acquisition for Negma and we are happy to provide our human and financial resources, which are essential to develop the Zilli brand and bring it to the fore,” said Anthony de Rauville. , investment director of the Negma group.
Through this acquisition, the funds hope to ensure that the Lyon, France-based menswear brand can expand its reach and tap into lucrative regions such as the Middle East, Europe and Asia through key investments in the marketing and communication departments, aimed at modernizing the brand image, very linked to the craft references of the brand.
In 2010, Zilli was awarded the Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant label, a mark of recognition issued in France.
“We are very proud to be responsible for Maison Zilli. We will use a very professional team, who will work hand in hand with the teams in place to create the platform necessary for sustainable growth and the creation of long-term value”, commented Guglielmo Ruggeri, Managing Director . did.
As part of the agreement, the funds are committed to maintain the employment of the company’s workforce. Zilli has 70 employees, 54 of whom are based at the Dardilly production site, on the outskirts of Lyon.
