Editor’s Note
This article details Kering’s strategic move into high jewellery manufacturing with its acquisition of a stake in Italy’s Raselli Franco Group, marking a significant first step under new CEO Luca de Meo.
The French luxury giant is heading to Valenza, a town in the Piedmont region’s province of Alessandria. The area is home to the most important production units for international high jewellery. Kering is acquiring Raselli Franco Group, one of Europe’s largest independent producers of luxury jewellery. This marks the first acquisition since the appointment of CEO Luca de Meo.
de Meo noted in a statement.
Kering has taken an initial 20 percent stake, valued at 115 million euros, with a progressive increase towards full ownership of the Italian company by 2032.
the French giant explained in a note. The company’s portfolio already includes the jewellery Maisons Boucheron, Pomellato, Dodo and Qeelin.
the statement read.
Founded in 1969, Raselli Franco Group has specialised production sites and manages the entire value chain. This includes sourcing raw materials and precious stones; research and development; design; component production; assembly and quality control. Its mastery of both casting and computer numerical control processes is a unique capability in the sector. Kering’s management highlighted this as a key asset for producing high and fine jewellery.
The completion of the transaction is subject to the usual conditions and regulatory approvals.
said Andrea Raselli, CEO of Raselli Franco Group.