about fendi | who is Fendi owned by

Fendi. The name itself conjures images of opulent fur coats, meticulously crafted leather handbags adorned with iconic logos, and a certain effortless Italian chic. More than just a brand, Fendi is a symbol of enduring quality, groundbreaking design, and a heritage deeply rooted in Roman craftsmanship. From its humble beginnings as a small leather and fur shop in 1925, Fendi has evolved into a global powerhouse, consistently pushing the boundaries of luxury fashion while remaining true to its foundational values. This article delves into the fascinating history, ownership, success factors, and distinctive identity that make Fendi a truly exceptional brand.

About Fendi Company: A Roman Beginning and a Global Expansion

The story of Fendi begins in the heart of Rome on Via del Plebiscito. Edoardo Fendi and Adele Casagrande, a young and ambitious couple, established a small shop specializing in leather goods and fur. Adele, in particular, possessed a keen eye for quality and a dedication to artisanal craftsmanship. They quickly gained a reputation for their exquisite designs and meticulous attention to detail, attracting a discerning clientele.

The 1930s saw the business flourish, driven by Adele's innovative approach to fur, transforming it from a purely functional material into a statement of fashion and luxury. The brand’s reputation grew, and Fendi became synonymous with high-quality leather goods and sophisticated fur designs.

The next pivotal chapter unfolded with the involvement of Edoardo and Adele's five daughters: Paola, Anna, Franca, Carla, and Alda. Each daughter brought her unique talent and passion to the business, contributing to its continued growth and diversification. Paola focused on fur, Anna on leather goods, Franca on public relations, Carla on business coordination, and Alda on sales. This sisterly collaboration proved to be a powerful force, propelling Fendi into a new era of creativity and commercial success.

The 1960s marked a significant turning point with the arrival of Karl Lagerfeld. His collaboration with the Fendi sisters proved to be a legendary partnership that lasted for over five decades. Lagerfeld, with his visionary designs and innovative approach, revolutionized the brand, introducing new techniques in fur processing, designing the iconic "FF" logo (which originally stood for "Fun Furs"), and launching ready-to-wear collections. He was instrumental in transforming Fendi from a primarily fur-focused brand into a global fashion powerhouse encompassing a wide range of products.

Over the decades, Fendi expanded its product line to include ready-to-wear clothing for men and women, shoes, fragrances, eyewear, timepieces, and a vast array of accessories. The brand also established a global network of boutiques and department store concessions, solidifying its position as a leading luxury brand.

Today, Fendi continues to operate with a strong sense of its heritage while embracing contemporary design and innovation. The brand remains committed to using the finest materials, employing skilled artisans, and upholding the highest standards of quality.

Who is Fendi Owned By? A Shift in Ownership and Continued Legacy

While the Fendi family played a crucial role in building the brand's success for generations, the ownership structure has evolved over time. In 1999, LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton, the French luxury conglomerate, acquired a majority stake in Fendi. This acquisition provided Fendi with the financial resources and global distribution network to further expand its reach and solidify its position in the luxury market.

Initially, LVMH and Prada held equal shares in Fendi. However, in 2001, LVMH acquired Prada's stake, becoming the sole owner of the brand. This acquisition marked a new chapter for Fendi, allowing the brand to leverage LVMH's vast expertise in luxury brand management and its global network of resources.

Despite the change in ownership, the Fendi family remained involved in the creative direction of the brand. Silvia Venturini Fendi, Anna Fendi's daughter, continued to play a significant role as the creative director for accessories and menswear. Her deep understanding of the brand's heritage and her commitment to innovation have been instrumental in maintaining Fendi's distinctive aesthetic and relevance in the contemporary fashion landscape.

In 2020, Kim Jones was appointed as the artistic director for womenswear and couture, succeeding Karl Lagerfeld after his passing in 2019. Jones's appointment brought a fresh perspective to the brand while honoring its legacy and craftsmanship. His collections have been praised for their modern sensibility, luxurious materials, and subtle references to Fendi's rich history.

Therefore, Fendi is currently owned by LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton, the world's largest luxury conglomerate. However, the Fendi family continues to maintain a connection to the brand through Silvia Venturini Fendi, ensuring that the legacy of Italian craftsmanship and family values remains an integral part of the brand's identity.

Why is Fendi So Successful? A Symphony of Factors

Fendi's enduring success can be attributed to a complex interplay of factors that have shaped its identity and appeal over the decades: