In a bold move set to reshape the luxury fashion landscape, Italian fashion house Prada has struck a €1.26 billion deal to acquire iconic rival Versace from Capri Holdings.

The acquisition, announced on Thursday (today), includes Versace’s debt and marks a significant discount from the €1.92 billion that Capri – then known as Michael Kors – paid for the brand in 2018.

The deal brings together two of Italy’s most recognisable designer labels under one roof and is viewed as a strategic attempt to strengthen the country’s standing in a global luxury market largely dominated by French conglomerates such as LVMH and Kering.

Versace has struggled in recent quarters, posting operating losses amid a wider slowdown in luxury demand. The deal follows the departure of Donatella Versace as Chief Creative Officer in March, bringing to a close a decades-long chapter for the family behind the legendary fashion house.

Prada, on the other hand, has continued to perform resiliently, defying industry headwinds. The company, which already owns brands such as Miu Miu and Church’s (a luxury footwear company), said the acquisition will position it as a stronger competitor on the global stage.

MDB and Xjenza Malta launch initiative to help start-ups bring innovations to market

May 18, 2026
by Sam Vassallo

The scheme specifically targets one of the biggest challenges faced by innovative businesses: access to finance

MFSA launches consultation on tokenisation of financial instruments and real-world assets

May 18, 2026
by Sam Vassallo

The MFSA is seeking feedback from industry stakeholders and the public on Malta’s readiness for tokenised markets

The principal investigator of ‘AI For Everyone’ on why this AI course could transform Malta

May 18, 2026
by Sam Vassallo

Dylan Seychell explains why Malta’s new national AI literacy programme is less about teaching prompts and thinking critically