Target Information

Founded in Marseille in the late 1990s by Emma François-Grasset, Sessùn is a well-loved French 'affordable luxury' brand known for its modern boho-chic style and strong emphasis on craftsmanship. The brand has successfully merged luxury with accessibility, making it appealing to a wide range of customers. It aims to deliver beautiful, well-made pieces with attention to detail that rivals more high-end options.

Sessùn boasts a diverse customer base, reflecting its inclusive design philosophy that caters to women of all ages, from 10 to 70 years old. This broad appeal has contributed to the brand's desirability, standing out in a competitive marketplace. Recently, in September, Made in Italy Fund II, a private equity fund managed by Quadrivio & Pambianco that focuses on Italian excellence and lifestyle brands, acquired a majority stake in Sessùn, signaling a strategic move toward its expansion.

Industry Overview in Italy

The Italian fashion industry has a longstanding reputation for excellence and innovation, characterized by a blend of artistry and commercial acumen. Italy is home to renowned fashion houses and emerging designers, presenting a vibrant marketplace for both domestic and international brands. The growing trend towards sustainability and ethical fashion has pushed brands to adopt eco-friendly practices, appealing to an increasingly conscious consumer base.

Despite economic fluctuations, the luxury segment in Italy continues to thrive, with many brands successfully tapping into both local and tourism-driven markets. The demand for affordable luxury items has grown, creating opportunities for brands like Sessùn to penetrate the market effectively. The resilience of physical retail during difficult times highlights the importance of establishing a strong presence through strategically located flagships and boutiques.

Furthermore, the rise of digital commerce and the integration of technology in retail transformation are reshaping the shopping experience in Italy. Brands are now focusing on enhancing customer engagement, using AI and CRM tools to improve services like click and collect. The evolution of the retail landscape provides a fertile ground for an international brand like Sessùn to make its mark.

Italy represents a key growth market for Sessùn, particularly given its plans for a flagship store in Milan by the end of 2025. The anticipated expansion signifies Sessùn's commitment to establishing a robust presence in the Italian market while capitalizing on the wealth of fashion expertise that Italy embodies.

Rationale Behind the Deal

The acquisition of Sessùn by Made in Italy Fund II is a strategic alignment aimed at fostering an international presence for the brand while leveraging the growing demand for affordable luxury in Italy and beyond. The decision to invest in a French brand reflects a broader ambition to Europeanize and internationalize the portfolio of the fund, allowing for synergies between Sessùn and existing investments.

This investment underscores the potential for growth in a highly competitive sector, enabling Sessùn to evolve its market approach and adapt to specific consumer demands. The emphasis on maintaining Emma François-Grasset as creative director solidifies continuity and ensures that the brand's identity is preserved as it scales.

Investor Information

Made in Italy Fund II is a private equity fund that targets investments in Italian brands with a focus on lifestyle and luxury. Managed by Quadrivio & Pambianco, the fund aims to promote the best of Italian craftsmanship and innovation, seeking out opportunities that align with contemporary consumer trends. The management team brings a wealth of experience in identifying and nurturing high-potential companies, ensuring that investments are strategically sound.

The fund has a rich history of supporting brands that exhibit growth potential, making this acquisition a natural extension of its portfolio. By fostering the development of emerging brands like Sessùn, Made in Italy Fund II aims to capitalize on the increasing demand for unique fashion offerings that blend style with affordability.

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The acquisition of Sessùn by Made in Italy Fund II appears to be a promising investment, especially given the brand's established market presence and potential for expansion in Italy and beyond. The strategic decision to maintain the founding team ensures that the brand's vision and creativity remain intact, an essential factor for any fashion label seeking to grow.

Sessùn's commitment to sustainable practices, as evidenced by its B Corp certification, positions it favorably in a market that increasingly values eco-conscious brands. Integrating sustainable initiatives within the core business strategy shows that the brand is forward-thinking and aligned with contemporary consumer values.

Furthermore, the planned expansions into key markets such as Milan and the U.S. indicate a well-thought-out growth strategy. By leveraging the distinctiveness of its product offerings and enhancing customer engagement through digital initiatives, Sessùn is set to attract a loyal customer base eager for both style and sustainability.

Overall, Made in Italy Fund II's investment in Sessùn is expected to yield positive returns, driven by strong brand identity, effective management, and a robust growth strategy that capitalizes on current consumer trends in the fashion industry.

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