News Summary
LuisaViaRoma, a prominent e-commerce retailer, plans to close its Milan office as part of a strategic reorganization aimed at improving efficiency and tackling financial challenges. The decision impacts 22 employees who may relocate to Florence. CEO Tommaso Maria Andorlini emphasized that there are currently no plans for layoffs. The company is also holding discussions with trade unions about workforce support and addressing financial strains amid ongoing negotiations with creditors. As LuisaViaRoma navigates these changes, it continues to invest in the U.S. market despite rising challenges due to geopolitical issues.
Milan – LuisaViaRoma, an established e-commerce leader since its inception in 1999, has announced plans to close its Milan office as part of a strategic reorganization aimed at overcoming financial challenges and improving operational efficiency. The decision will affect 22 employees, who may have to relocate to the company’s headquarters in Florence, as reported by trade unions Filcams Cgil.
According to CEO Tommaso Maria Andorlini, the Milan unit was identified as non-strategic, and the closure is intended to centralize operations at the Florence base to enhance decision-making and promote a cohesive work environment. The affected employees come from various departments, including marketing, IT, and buying.
Andorlini has expressed a commitment to supporting those impacted during this transition period. He indicated that the company plans to assist affected staff through reassignment opportunities within LuisaViaRoma, taking into consideration their individual skills and circumstances. Importantly, there are currently no plans for layoffs or redundancies, reflecting the company’s intention to retain its workforce.
In conjunction with this restructuring, Andorlini is scheduled to meet with trade unions to discuss a more comprehensive workforce plan for the company. This may include provisions for “cassa integrazione,” a state-funded wage support program designed to help workers during transitional phases.
As LuisaViaRoma navigates these changes, the company is also currently engaged in negotiations with its financial creditors. Despite persistent rumors suggesting that it might seek court-mediated composition with creditors, Andorlini has reassured stakeholders that such measures are not under consideration at this time.
Financially, LuisaViaRoma reported sales reaching €310 million for the fiscal year 2024, alongside financial debt amounting to €30 million. The retailer has recently undergone a successful capital increase, although the exact amount raised has not been disclosed. Shareholders have shown a commitment to support the company’s restructuring efforts moving forward.
The strategic closure in Milan occurs against the backdrop of significant investment in the U.S. market, where LuisaViaRoma opened its second physical retail store in New York City’s NoHo in July of the previous year. This initiative had previously led to remarkable growth in the American market, which was the retailer’s largest market until early 2025. Unfortunately, this growth has faced severe disruptions due to geopolitical instability and the prospect of impending tariffs on imported goods. These tariffs could increase to as much as 30%, potentially disrupting business operations and impacting consumer perception regarding product value versus price.
Andorlini has acknowledged the ongoing tariff uncertainties, indicating that these issues may compel LuisaViaRoma to reconsider its approach in the U.S. market. He reiterated his commitment to the company’s existing business model while recognizing the challenges faced by Italian independent multibrand retailers in this dynamic market.
In an effort to adapt and innovate, LuisaViaRoma is collaborating with Camera Buyer Italia to launch a multistore online marketplace later this year. This initiative aims to further enhance its digital presence and diversify its offerings in response to evolving market conditions.
LuisaViaRoma’s roots date back to 1929 when it was founded by Luisa Jaquin, the grandmother of the current president, Andrea Panconesi, who has also taken on significant roles within the company. While Panconesi previously served as CEO, the position is currently held by Andorlini, with Annagreta Panconesi as the creative director.
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Additional Resources
- WWD: LuisaViaRoma Shuts Milan Unit
- Prestige Online: Aeyde x LuisaViaRoma
- The 360 Mag: LuisaViaRoma x Gigi Hadid
- Wikipedia: LuisaViaRoma
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Fashion
