Gucci Creative Director Sabato De Sarno Departs Amid Brand Struggles
De Sarno's exit follows declining sales and mixed reception to his creative vision, with Gucci now seeking new leadership to revitalize its brand.
- Sabato De Sarno has departed Gucci after a two-year tenure marked by declining revenues and underwhelming consumer response to his designs.
- Gucci's revenue dropped 21% in the first nine months of 2024 compared to the same period in 2023, with a 25% decline in the third quarter alone.
- Kering, Gucci's parent company, has faced broader challenges, with most of its major brands experiencing revenue declines, except for modest growth at Bottega Veneta and Kering Eyewear.
- Analysts suggest De Sarno's departure reflects Gucci's struggle to balance its heritage luxury identity with consumer expectations for bold, fashion-forward designs.
- Gucci's leadership, including new CEO Stefano Cantino, is focusing on a turnaround strategy, with a new creative director to be announced in the future.