An expanding Margiela seeks partners for eyewear and perfumes

In an interview with Milano Finanza Fashion, Renzo Rosso, owner of Diesel and majority shareholder in the Belgian fashion house, Martin Margiela, spoke about future plans for the label and, in particular, stated that he aimed at 'doubling billings over the next five years' (current turnover is around 30 million euros).

'We will keep the same number of stores throughout the world (150 multi-brand stores and a total of 200 doors)', Rosso explained, 'but we aim to increase our presence in some high-potential areas, such as China, Korea, Russia, and also South America, with San Paolo coming first and foremost'.

Next year will see the opening of the first monobrand in New York and some of the Paris boutiques will be transformed to give the fashion house greater visibility. 'We'll also be working on the product side', Rosso added, 'we are developing accessories, an interesting business for Margiela, and we'll also be looking into two licenses. In 2005 we will start looking for partners in eyewear and perfumes, two products that perfectly suit Margiela world'.