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french luxury group kering | owner of Kering

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From its origins in timber – a world far removed from the glittering flagship stores lining the Champs-Élysées, Fifth Avenue, and Via Monte Napoleone – French luxury group Kering has become one of the most powerful and influential forces in the global luxury goods market. Kering’s journey is a testament to strategic diversification, astute brand management, and a forward-thinking approach that embraces sustainability and innovation. This article delves into the history, structure, brand portfolio, and future direction of this iconic French conglomerate.

From Timber to Textiles: The Genesis of Kering

The story of Kering begins in 1963 in northern France, with François Pinault establishing *Établissements Pinault*, a timber and building materials company. This humble beginning provides a stark contrast to the high-fashion empire Kering is today. Over the next few decades, Pinault steadily expanded his company through acquisitions and strategic investments, transforming it into a leading player in the timber industry.

The real transformation began in the late 1980s and early 1990s, when Pinault recognized the growing potential of the retail sector. He initiated a series of acquisitions, including the French department store *Printemps* in 1992, marking the company's entry into the world of retail. This move signaled a shift in focus away from timber and towards consumer-facing businesses.

The Pivot to Luxury: Acquiring Gucci and Beyond

The pivotal moment in Kering's history came with the acquisition of a significant stake in Gucci in 1999. This marked the group's entry into the luxury goods market and set the stage for its future as a global luxury powerhouse. The acquisition was not without its challenges, as it involved a protracted and acrimonious battle with LVMH, another major player in the luxury industry. However, Pinault persevered, ultimately securing control of Gucci and laying the foundation for Kering's luxury empire.

Following the Gucci acquisition, the group embarked on a period of aggressive expansion, acquiring a string of prestigious luxury brands. These acquisitions included Yves Saint Laurent (YSL), Bottega Veneta, Alexander McQueen, Balenciaga, and many others. Each acquisition was carefully considered, with the aim of building a diverse portfolio of brands that appealed to different segments of the luxury market.

Restructuring and Rebranding: The Birth of Kering

In 2013, the group underwent a significant restructuring and rebranding, changing its name from PPR (Pinault-Printemps-Redoute) to Kering. This name change reflected the company's strategic shift away from retail and towards luxury goods. The name "Kering" is derived from the Breton word "ker," meaning "home," symbolizing the group's commitment to its brands and its employees.

François-Henri Pinault, son of François Pinault, took over as CEO of Kering in 2005 and has been instrumental in shaping the group's strategic direction. Under his leadership, Kering has focused on developing its brands, fostering creativity and innovation, and promoting sustainable business practices. He has also overseen the group's continued expansion into new markets and product categories.

Kering's Brand Portfolio: A Symphony of Luxury

Kering's brand portfolio is a diverse and prestigious collection of some of the world's most iconic luxury brands. Each brand operates independently, maintaining its unique identity and creative vision, while benefiting from the resources and expertise of the Kering group. Here's a look at some of the key brands within the Kering family:

* Gucci: The flagship brand of the Kering group, Gucci is synonymous with Italian luxury, renowned for its iconic designs, bold prints, and innovative collections. It spans across various categories, including fashion, leather goods, shoes, accessories, and fragrances.

* Yves Saint Laurent (Saint Laurent): Representing Parisian chic and edgy elegance, Saint Laurent is known for its timeless designs, rock 'n' roll aesthetic, and minimalist silhouettes. The brand offers a wide range of products, including ready-to-wear, leather goods, shoes, and accessories.

* Bottega Veneta: Known for its understated luxury and exceptional craftsmanship, Bottega Veneta is famous for its signature intrecciato leather weaving technique. The brand offers a range of leather goods, clothing, shoes, and accessories.

* Balenciaga: A pioneer of avant-garde fashion, Balenciaga is renowned for its innovative designs, sculptural silhouettes, and futuristic aesthetic. The brand offers a wide range of products, including ready-to-wear, shoes, and accessories.

* Alexander McQueen: Known for its dramatic and theatrical designs, Alexander McQueen is a brand that celebrates individuality and creativity. The brand offers ready-to-wear, accessories, and shoes.

* Brioni: A luxury menswear brand renowned for its impeccable tailoring and handcrafted suits, Brioni caters to discerning gentlemen who appreciate quality and craftsmanship.

* Pomellato: Italy's first global luxury jeweler, Pomellato is known for its colorful gemstones, bold designs, and contemporary aesthetic.

* DoDo: A playful and accessible jewelry brand, DoDo offers a range of charms, bracelets, and necklaces that can be personalized to reflect individual style.

* Qeelin: A fine jewelry brand that celebrates Chinese culture and heritage, Qeelin is known for its whimsical designs and exquisite craftsmanship.

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Dimensions 6.6 × 1.1 × 2.9 in

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