Here’s Bottega Veneta History and Ownership (1966-2024)

Bottega Veneta, established in 1966 in Vicenza, Italy, by Michele Taddei and Renzo Zengiaro, has cemented itself as a prominent name in the luxury fashion industry. Known for its exquisite intrecciato leather weaving technique, the brand specializes in high-end leather products, including handbags, shoes, accessories, and clothing. In 2023, Bottega Veneta generated approximately €1.65 billion in global revenue, with operations in North America contributing 17%.

The brand primarily targets high-net-worth individuals aged 25 to 34 who value sophisticated, luxury fashion items. With 288 retail stores worldwide, including 44 in Japan, Bottega Veneta maintains a market presence and was acquired by Gucci (a subsidiary of Kering) for $156 million in 2001. In this timeline, we will explore the changes in ownership and leadership that have defined the brand's journey.

Foundation and Early Years

• 1966: Bottega Veneta was established by Michele Taddei and Renzo Zengiaro in Vicenza, Italy. The brand initially focused on artisanal leather goods, introducing the iconic Intrecciato weaving design, which remains a hallmark of the brand’s aesthetic.
• 1970s: Renzo Zengiaro exited the company towards the end of the 1970s. Michele Taddei subsequently transferred ownership to his ex-wife, Laura Braggion, who, along with her second husband Vittorio Moltedo, moved to New York to propel the brand into the international market.

Rising Popularity in the 1980s and 1990s

• 1980: Bottega Veneta gained significant visibility when actress Lauren Hutton carried their Intrecciato bag in the movie "American Gigolo."
• 1985: Renowned artist Andy Warhol created the short film "Bottega Veneta Industrial Videotape," further cementing the brand's cultural relevance.
• 1990s: The brand launched its first ready-to-wear collection and began to establish itself beyond leather goods.

Enter Gucci and Kering

• February 2001: Gucci, a subsidiary of the French multinational corporation Kering, acquired Bottega Veneta for $156 million. This acquisition began a new era under the aegis of a leading luxury conglomerate.
• May–June 2001: Patrizio di Marco was appointed CEO, and Tomas Maier took over as Creative Director, crafting a vision that Vogue described as "stealth wealth"—a sophisticated, understated luxury.
• 2000s: Throughout this decade, Bottega Veneta expanded its product lines and became profitable again. By 2010, sales had grown fifteen-fold from the previous decade. In 2012, annual sales reached the $1 billion milestone.

Modernization and Global Expansion

• 2011: Marco Bizzarri succeeded Patrizio di Marco as CEO, steering the brand through further growth phases and expanding production capabilities with new manufacturing sites in Vicenza.
• 2013: Bottega Veneta moved its atelier to a historic 18th-century villa in Montebello Vicentino, a move symbolizing its commitment to preserving traditional craftsmanship while embracing modernism.
• 2018: Claus-Dietrich Lahrs took over as CEO. This year also marked the end of Tomas Maier’s tenure as Creative Director, with Daniel Lee succeeding him. Lee was instrumental in rejuvenating the brand with contemporary appeal, targeting younger demographics.

Recent Changes and Current Ownership

• Late 2021: Daniel Lee departed amid unspecified controversies, and Matthieu Blazy succeeded him as Creative Director. Blazy, known for his innovative vision, continues to drive the brand forward.
• October 2021: Alejandra Rossitto was appointed as the CEO of the Americas, illustrating the brand's focus on regional leadership and market-specific strategies.

Today

Bottega Veneta remains a subsidiary of Kering, a French-based multinational corporation specializing in luxury goods. Kering's portfolio includes prestigious brands such as Gucci, Balenciaga, Yves Saint Laurent, and Alexander McQueen. As of 2024, the brand continues to thrive under Kering's stewardship, leveraging its heritage of craftsmanship and modern creative vision to maintain its position in the luxury market.