The partnership strengthens Roberto Cavalli’s global luxury expansion with strategic investment and regional growth opportunities.
Marquee Brands, a leading global brand management firm and brand accelerator, today announced that it has signed a definitive agreement through a strategic partnership with Dubai-based DAMAC Group, a leading global group and luxury real estate developer, to acquire a majority stake in Roberto Cavalli. The transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of 2026, after which DAMAC Group will retain a significant shareholder. Founded in Florence in 1970, Roberto Cavalli, an iconic luxury fashion brand known for its contemporary avant-garde design and unique Italian craftsmanship, will join Marquee Brands’ enduring global portfolio of brands, which includes Martha Stewart, Laura Ashley, Sur La Table, BCBGMAXAZRIA, and Stance. The addition of Roberto Cavalli further solidifies Marquee Brands’ leadership in the luxury and lifestyle sector and brings the overall portfolio’s total retail sales to approximately $5 billion.
Heath Golden, CEO of Marquee Brands, stated, “Roberto Cavalli is one of the iconic brands that defines Italian luxury fashion, possessing a bold creative spirit and a timeless brand ethos. We see tremendous potential for continued growth on this foundation through meticulous brand management and strategic expansion. We will be partnering with DAMAC, a leader in luxury real estate, to further enhance the Roberto Cavalli brand experience globally.”
Hussain Sajwani, founder of DAMAC Group, stated, “Roberto Cavalli is one of the world’s most distinctive luxury brands. After consolidating the brand’s foundation over the past few years, we began seeking a strategic partner with the expertise to propel the brand to its next stage. We firmly believe that Marquee Brands is the ideal partner to achieve this goal. Based on our love for the brand and our continued significant stake, we look forward to supporting Marquee Brands’ efforts, including the continued expansion of the Roberto Cavalli lifestyle portfolio, such as through branded residences and hotel projects in top global destinations, an area that remains wholly owned and operated by DAMAC. This partnership marks an exciting new era for the brand, and we anticipate significant growth in the future.”
Marquee Brands, owned by funds managed by global investment management firm Neuberger, continues to expand its global platform through acquisitions of traditional brands with deep consumer resonance. Roberto Cavalli is the 22nd brand in Marquee Brands’ portfolio.
Zachary Sigel, Managing Director of Neuberger and Co-founder of Marquee Brands, stated, “Marquee Brands has established a proven, capital-efficient business model that drives growth through rigorous brand management, strategic partnerships, and a long-term investment perspective. The acquisition of Roberto Cavalli further strengthens Neuberger’s confidence in the platform and its ability to continuously create value for investors.”
The partnership between Marquee Brands and DAMAC expands the global reach of the Roberto Cavalli brand, combining the complementary strengths of both companies and their shared commitment to elevating this legendary Italian fashion brand. Marquee Brands will accelerate Roberto Cavalli’s growth by launching new product categories, services, and experiential touchpoints in Europe, the UK, the US, the Middle East, Asia Pacific, and Latin America.
DAMAC will continue to expand its brand influence in key global markets through the Roberto Cavalli residential and hotel project, further solidifying its luxury positioning and brand appeal. This collaboration creates a powerful platform, combining Marquee Brands’ expertise in global brand development with DAMAC’s leadership in luxury real estate and hospitality, opening up significant new opportunities for the future of Roberto Cavalli.
As part of this transaction, Marquee Brands announced that Milan-based partner The Level Group (TLG) will become its core operating partner. TLG will be responsible for the development, manufacturing, and distribution of the brand’s men’s and women’s collections, ensuring a consistent and upgraded product vision across key markets. Furthermore, TLG will also be responsible for retail and e-commerce operations and wholesale distribution in Europe and the United States, strengthening Roberto Cavalli’s direct-to-consumer (DTC) presence and global retail strategy.
RBC Capital Markets served as financial advisor to Marquee Brands, while Greenberg Traurig served as its legal counsel. BDA Partners served as financial advisor to DAMAC Properties.
About Roberto Cavalli
Founded in 1970, Roberto Cavalli is a leading Italian brand of fashion, accessories, and luxury lifestyle. Characterized by a sophisticated and contemporary aesthetic, the brand embodies Italian excellence, craftsmanship, and its Mediterranean origins. Roberto Cavalli’s portfolio is positioned in the high-end luxury market and includes the Home, Junior, Eyewear, Perfumes, Watches, and Just Cavalli collections
