On May 20, New York-based brand management company Marquee Brands announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire a majority stake in Roberto Cavalli. The transaction will be carried out through a strategic partnership with Dubai-based conglomerate “DAMAC Group” and is expected to close in the second quarter of 2026. DAMAC will remain a significant shareholder following the completion of the deal.
Summary
- Marquee Brands to acquire a majority stake in Roberto Cavalli through a strategic partnership with DAMAC Group
- DAMAC Group is expected to remain a significant shareholder following the completion of the transaction
- Milan-based The Level Group appointed as the core operating partner for the fashion business
- The partnership aims to expand Roberto Cavalli’s global lifestyle presence, including branded residences and hospitality projects
- Roberto Cavalli becomes the 22nd brand in Marquee Brands’ portfolio
Founded in Florence in 1970, Roberto Cavalli is widely recognized for its bold prints, glamorous aesthetic, and signature Italian craftsmanship. Through this acquisition, the luxury house joins Marquee Brands’ portfolio, which includes brands such as “Martha Stewart,” “Laura Ashley,” and “BCBGMAXAZRIA.”
Commenting on the announcement, Marquee Brands CEO Heath Golden stated: “Roberto Cavalli stands as one of luxury’s defining Italian houses, with a bold creative identity and enduring brand ethos. We see extraordinary potential to build on that foundation through thoughtful brand stewardship and strategic expansion. In partnership with DAMAC, a leader in luxury real estate, we will continue to elevate the Roberto Cavalli experience worldwide.”
In recent years, Roberto Cavalli has been focused on reinforcing its brand foundation, and the partnership marks the next phase of its long-term growth strategy. Beyond fashion, the brand also plans to strengthen its lifestyle business through branded residences and hospitality developments.
DAMAC Group founder Hussain Sajwani commented: “Roberto Cavalli is one of the most distinctive luxury brands in the world. After several years of solidifying the brand’s foundation, we set out to find a strategic partner with the skillset to take the brand to the next level. We are confident Marquee Brands is the right partner to do so.”
He further added: “Given our love for the brand and meaningful ongoing shareholdings, we look forward to supporting Marquee Brands’ efforts, by among other things, continuing to expand the Roberto Cavalli lifestyle through branded residences and hospitality projects in premier global destinations, an area that remains fully owned and operated by DAMAC.”
As part of the transaction, Milan-based “The Level Group（TLG）” has been appointed as Roberto Cavalli’s core operating partner. TLG will oversee the development, manufacturing, and distribution of the brand’s womenswear and menswear collections, while also managing retail, e-commerce, and wholesale operations across Europe and the United States.
Marquee Brands has continued expanding its global platform through the acquisition of heritage brands in recent years, with Roberto Cavalli becoming the 22nd brand in its portfolio. Following the acquisition, the company’s total portfolio-wide retail sales are expected to reach approximately US$5 billion.
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