In a seismic shift for the global luxury sector, Lorenzo Bertelli, the heir apparent to the Prada fashion dynasty, is poised to assume a pivotal strategic role as the executive chairman of rival house Versace. This major leadership move comes as the Prada Group finalises its blockbuster €1.25 billion deal to acquire the iconic Italian brand from US-based Capri Holdings.
A New Chapter for an Iconic Brand
The Prada Group confirmed the appointment on Thursday, 20th November 2025, signalling a new era for Versace. Bertelli, who is the elder son of acclaimed designer Miuccia Prada and Prada Group chairman Patrizio Bertelli, has been groomed for leadership. Now 37, he currently serves as the group's marketing director and head of corporate social responsibility.
Bertelli first revealed his forthcoming role on an Italian-language Bloomberg podcast, outlining his initial approach. He indicated that he does not foresee any radical shake-ups at Versace for at least the first year post-acquisition, preferring instead to dedicate that time to understanding the company and its executive team intimately.
Unlocking Versace's Untapped Potential
Despite this cautious start, Bertelli was clear about the challenge ahead. He stated that the 47-year-old fashion house, founded by the late Gianni Versace, has been underperforming relative to its immense brand power and global recognition.
"The brand is much bigger than the revenue that it is generating," Bertelli remarked, while still acknowledging that Versace remains firmly positioned among the world's top-tier fashion labels.
The acquisition, first announced in April, brings Versace's bold and sexy aesthetic under the same corporate umbrella as Prada's intellectual "ugly chic" and Miu Miu's youth-focused designs. This creates a powerful new portfolio within the Prada Group, which also includes the Church’s and Car Shoe brands.
Financial Implications and Market Position
The financial scale of this merger is substantial. For its previous owner, Capri Holdings, Versace contributed a significant 20% of the group's €5.2 billion revenue in 2024.
In a presentation last spring, the Prada Group projected how Versace would fit into its broader business. It is estimated that Versace will constitute 13% of the Prada Group's pro-forma revenues. This positions it behind the meteoric Miu Miu, which is expected to contribute 22%, and the flagship Prada brand, which will dominate at 64%.
The Prada Group itself is in a strong growth phase, having reported a 17% boost in revenues to €5.4 billion last year. The integration of Versace is poised to further cement its status as a global luxury powerhouse.
