Marquee Brands Forms Strategic Partnership with DAMAC Group for Majority Share Ownership in Roberto Cavalli

New York—(ANTARA/Business Wire)—Marquee Brands, a leading global brand management company and premier brand accelerator, announced today a definitive agreement to acquire a majority stake in Roberto Cavalli through a strategic partnership with DAMAC Group. DAMAC Group is a leading global conglomerate and luxury real estate developer based in Dubai. The transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of 2026, with DAMAC Group remaining the principal shareholder. Founded in Florence in 1970, Roberto Cavalli is an iconic luxury fashion house renowned for avant-garde designs and Italian craftsmanship. Roberto Cavalli joins Marquee Brands’ enduring global brand portfolio, which includes Martha Stewart, Laura Ashley, Sur La Table, BCBGMAXAZRIA, and Stance. The addition of Roberto Cavalli further strengthens Marquee Brands’ position as a leader in the luxury goods and lifestyle sector, bringing total retail sales across its portfolio to around US$5 billion.

“Roberto Cavalli is one of the most influential Italian fashion houses in the luxury goods industry, with a bold creative identity and core brand values that are maintained,” said Heath Golden, Chief Executive Officer of Marquee Brands. “We see tremendous potential to build on this foundation through careful brand management and strategic expansion. Together with DAMAC Group, a leader in luxury real estate, we will continue to elevate the Roberto Cavalli experience worldwide.”

“Roberto Cavalli is one of the most distinctive luxury brands in the world. After several years of strengthening the brand’s foundations, we sought a strategic partner with the expertise to take Roberto Cavalli to the next level. We are confident that Marquee Brands is the right partner to do this. Because of our love for the Roberto Cavalli brand and the ongoing majority stake we will retain, we look forward to supporting Marquee Brands’ efforts to broaden the Roberto Cavalli lifestyle through branded residential and hotel developments in key destinations worldwide, a sector that remains fully owned and operated by DAMAC. This partnership marks an exciting new era for Roberto Cavalli, and we look forward to meaningful expansion in the years ahead.”

Marquee Brands is owned by a fund managed by Neuberger, a global investment management firm. Marquee Brands continues to expand its global platform by acquiring heritage brands that are deeply loved by consumers. Roberto Cavalli is the 22nd brand in Marquee Brands’ portfolio.

“Marquee Brands has built a capital‑efficient model for driving growth through disciplined brand management, strategic partnerships, and long‑term investment horizons,” said Zachary Sigel, Managing Director at Neuberger and one of the co‑founders of Marquee Brands. “The acquisition of Roberto Cavalli strengthens Neuberger’s confidence in this platform and its ability to continue creating value for investors.”

The partnership between Marquee Brands and DAMAC broadens the global reach of the Roberto Cavalli brand by combining complementary strengths and a shared commitment to elevating this legendary Italian fashion house. Marquee Brands will accelerate Roberto Cavalli’s growth by introducing new categories, services, and experiences in Europe, the United Kingdom, the United States, the Middle East, Asia Pacific, and Latin America.

DAMAC will continue to expand the brand’s presence through branded residences and hotel developments in key global markets, reinforcing Roberto Cavalli’s status as a symbol of luxury and exclusive appeal. The partnership creates a strong platform that combines Marquee Brands’ expertise in global brand development with DAMAC’s leadership in luxury real estate and hospitality, unlocking significant future opportunities for Roberto Cavalli.

As part of the transaction, Marquee Brands announced The Level Group (TLG) of Milan as the operational partner. TLG will lead the development, production, and distribution of Marquee Brands’ women’s and men’s fashion collections, ensuring an integrated and superior product vision across key markets. TLG will also be responsible for retail and e-commerce operations and wholesale distribution in Europe and the United States to strengthen Roberto Cavalli’s direct‑to‑consumer presence and its global retail strategy.

RBC Capital Markets acted as financial advisor and Greenberg Traurig acted as legal advisor to Marquee Brands. BDA Partners acted as financial advisor to DAMAC Properties.

ABOUT ROBERTO CAVALLI

Founded in 1970, Roberto Cavalli is a leading Italian brand in fashion, accessories and luxury lifestyle. Known for glamorous contemporary aesthetics, the brand epitomises Italian excellence, craftsmanship and Mediterranean roots. The Roberto Cavalli portfolio covers luxury segments including Homewares, Children’s Wear, Eyewear, Fragrances, Watches, and Just Cavalli. www.robertocavalli.com

ABOUT MARQUEE BRANDS

Marquee Brands is a leading accelerator of timeless brands, delivering value and building global influence. Focusing on driving growth and building sustainable brand equity, we partner with top manufacturers, operators, retailers and distributors to elevate brands across markets and channels. Marquee Brands’ global portfolio includes three platforms: Home & Dining, Fashion & Lifestyle, Luxury Goods, and Activities & Outdoors. The Marquee Brands portfolio includes