Giorgio Armani, the 90-year-old founder of his eponymous Italian fashion brand, has revealed plans to retire within the next two to three years. In an interview published Sunday with Italy’s Corriere della Sera newspaper, Armani addressed longstanding questions about succession and the future of his independent luxury empire.
“I can still give myself two or three years as head of the company. Not more, it would be negative,” Armani stated, breaking his usual reticence on the topic. The designer, who founded his company in 1975 and maintains firm control, expressed having restless nights dreaming of a future where he’s no longer the final decision-maker.
Armani acknowledged receiving “slightly more insistent” approaches from potential outside investors but maintained that “for the moment I do not see any openings.” This stance underscores his commitment to maintaining the company’s independence in an industry increasingly dominated by luxury conglomerates like LVMH and Kering.
With no children to inherit the business, speculation has swirled about the long-term future of the Armani empire. The designer mentioned he has “built a kind of structure, a project, a protocol” to govern his succession, though he didn’t provide specific details.
Previous reports have indicated the existence of documents outlining future governing principles for the company’s heirs, expected to include Armani’s sister, three other family members working in the company, long-term collaborator Pantaleo Dell’Orco, and a charitable foundation.
As Armani prepares for his eventual departure, his announcement marks a significant moment for the fashion industry, raising questions about the future of independent luxury brands in a rapidly consolidating market.
