LONDON: Oakley Capital Investments Limited announced Tuesday that its Iconic BrandCo platform is expanding with investments in three premium lifestyle brands: Smythson of Bond Street, Fornasetti and Fabbrica Pelletterie Milano (FPM).
The move strengthens Oakley’s portfolio of luxury heritage brands under Iconic BrandCo, a vehicle established in 2020 under Oakley Capital Fund III. Oakley Capital Investments’ indirect contribution to the deals is estimated at approximately £15 million.
About the Brands
- Smythson, founded in London in 1887, is renowned for high-end leather goods and stationery, holding two royal warrants. It operates stores in the U.K., France and Japan, alongside global e-commerce sales.
- Fornasetti, a Milan-based design atelier founded in 1940, produces handcrafted home décor sold through retail, wholesale and online channels.
- FPM, a family-owned Italian luggage maker established in 1956, distributes its products through partnerships with luxury brands.
The acquisitions align with Oakley’s strategy to grow heritage brands by expanding their international reach, digitizing operations and enhancing marketing. Iconic BrandCo’s existing investments include Alessi, Globe-Trotter and Connolly.
Vicente Castellano, Oakley Capital operating partner, called the additions a “milestone” in creating a unique brand collection, citing opportunities in e-commerce and global expansion.