Burberry announced plans to acquire a specialist technical outerwear factory from Pattern SpA, a longtime supplier whose business activities include engineering and production of luxury garments. The purchase price is €21 million ($23 mm).
Burberry said, “For almost two decades, Burberry has partnered with Pattern to produce luxury ready-to-wear, including quilts and downs, at the Italian company’s product development site in Turin, Italy. With this investment, Burberry will secure capacity, build technical outerwear capability and further embed sustainability into its value chain. The acquisition will complement Burberry’s historic manufacturing centers in Yorkshire, UK, where it will continue to weave gabardine, make the British luxury brand’s iconic heritage trench coat and invest in its operations. It follows the successful integration of Burberry’s leather goods hub in Florence, Italy.”
Burberry’s iconic heritage trench coats will continue to be woven and manufactured in the UK, where it will continue to invest in its capabilities.
Approximately 70 of Pattern’s Turin employees will join Burberry upon completion of the acquisition, expected later this year. Pattern will continue to operate the parts of the business not included in the transaction.
Jonathan Akeroyd, Burberry’s CEO, commented: “This strategic investment is an important next step in bringing our outerwear category to full potential. It will enhance our capabilities, building on our strong foundations in the UK and provide greater control over the quality, delivery and sustainability of our products. It’s an exciting development, and I am delighted to welcome our new colleagues on board.”
Photo courtesy Burberry
