Giorgio Armani, 90, Plans Retirement Within Two to Three Years

Fashion icon Giorgio Armani, founder of the renowned Italian fashion house bearing his name, has announced plans to retire within the next two to three years. In an interview with Italy’s *Corriere della Sera* published on Sunday, the 90-year-old designer, who founded the company in 1975 and maintains tight control, spoke candidly about his future.

 

“I can still give myself two or three years as head of the company. Not more, it would be negative,” Armani said, reflecting on his long career. He admitted to sleepless nights, dreaming of a time when he no longer has to make every critical decision, saying, “I no longer have to be the one who says ‘Yes’ or ‘No’.”

 

Amid speculation about the future of his empire, particularly given the dominance of luxury conglomerates like LVMH and Kering, Armani noted receiving “slightly more insistent” approaches from potential investors. However, he remains firm, stating, “For the moment, I do not see any openings” for external involvement.

 

With no children to inherit the business, questions about succession have long swirled. Armani revealed he has established “a kind of structure, a project, a protocol” to guide the company’s transition, though he offered no specifics. Last year, Reuters reported on a document held by a Milan notary outlining governance principles for Armani’s successors, alongside another addressing job protection within the firm. Expected heirs include his sister, three other family members involved in the company, long-term collaborator Pantaleo Dell’Orco, and a charitable foundation.

 

Armani’s commitment to independence and his legacy continues to shape discussions about the future of one of fashion’s most iconic brands.

 

Source: Reuters