The leather goods retailers industry in Europe consists of a wide range of companies producing high-quality products like handbags, shoes, and accessories. This sector not only emphasizes craftsmanship but also fosters innovation, embracing sustainable practices and advanced technology. Major luxury brands coexist with emerging designer labels, creating a competitive and dynamic market. As consumers become more environmentally conscious, many brands integrate recycled materials into their products, reflecting changing preferences. Furthermore, digital transformation is reshaping retail doors, heralding a shift toward online sales channels. With estimated growth fueled by changing trends, the industry continues to evolve to meet consumer desires.


The list of investors includes a mix of venture capital firms, private equity firms, and corporate investors from major European cities. Origins date back to the 1960s, with some firms surpassing 40 years of experience. By 2024, these investors collectively made over 350 deals in leather goods. Investor sizes vary significantly, with major players employing thousands while some niche firms remain compact. Their varied backgrounds reflect a robust interest in fashion and sustainability, underscoring increasing consumer demand for leather goods. Prominent firms like LVMH and Frasers Group illustrate the extent of involvement in this evolving sector.


Top 18 Leather Goods Retailers Investors in Europe


1. Lvmh

  • Website: lvmh.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
  • Founded year: 1987
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 11
  • LinkedIn: lvmh

LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE, founded in 1987 and headquartered in Paris, is a leading luxury goods manufacturer and retailer. The company offers a diverse range of high-quality products across various sectors, including fashion, leather goods, wines, spirits, perfumes, cosmetics, watches, and jewelry. LVMH serves affluent consumers and businesses with exclusive brands that embody craftsmanship and heritage. Notably, LVMH has made significant investments in the leather goods sector, including the acquisition of Fendi, a brand renowned for its leather products, and Les Tanneries Roux, a French producer of supple calf leathers. Additionally, LVMH acquired a minority stake in Masoni Industria Conciaria SpA, an Italian tannery, to support its long-term investments in leather production. These transactions highlight LVMH's strategic focus on enhancing its leather goods portfolio and securing high-quality raw materials for its luxury offerings.


2. Index Ventures

  • Website: indexventures.com
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1996
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 67
  • LinkedIn: index-ventures

Index Ventures is a venture capital firm founded in 1996, based in London, England. The firm invests in innovative startups across various sectors, including technology and healthcare, but has also shown a significant interest in the fashion and leather goods industries. Notably, Index Ventures invested $21 million in The Cambridge Satchel Company, a brand known for its high-quality leather bags, highlighting their commitment to the leather goods market. Additionally, their investments in Farfetch, which raised $20 million in Series C and $18 million in Series B, demonstrate their engagement with platforms that feature luxury leather products. Furthermore, their funding of Nasty Gal, a fashion retailer, indicates a broader interest in the fashion sector, which often includes leather goods. Overall, Index Ventures provides capital and strategic support to entrepreneurs, fostering long-term partnerships to drive success in various industries, including leather goods.


3. Frasers Group

  • Website: frasers.group
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1982
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 20
  • LinkedIn: frasers-group

Frasers Group plc is a prominent retail company based in London, England, founded in 1982. It operates various brands in the sports and fashion sectors, including Sports Direct and Jack Wills, and offers a diverse range of products such as clothing, footwear, and sporting goods. Notably, Frasers Group has made strategic investments in the leather goods sector, including a post-IPO equity investment in Mulberry Group, a renowned luxury brand known for its leather handbags and accessories, on February 3, 2020. They also invested in Hugo Boss, a global fashion brand recognized for its leather products, through multiple post-IPO equity transactions in January 2021 and June 2022. Furthermore, their acquisition of Matches Fashion Limited in December 2023 for approximately £80 million highlights their interest in the luxury fashion market, which includes leather goods. This diverse portfolio positions Frasers Group as a significant player in the leather goods retail investment landscape.


4. Crowdcube

  • Website: crowdcube.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 2010
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: crowdcube-limited

Crowdcube is a London-based crowdfunding platform founded in 2010 that enables businesses to raise capital through equity investments. It connects startups and SMEs with potential investors, facilitating the funding process. The platform promotes diversity and inclusion within its workforce while providing investment management services to its clients. Notably, Crowdcube has been involved in several transactions relevant to the leather goods industry, including Beara Beara, which raised $318,972 in equity crowdfunding in December 2014. This transaction highlights Crowdcube's engagement with leather goods retailers. Additionally, Crowdcube has facilitated funding for various other businesses, showcasing its broad investment approach while still maintaining a presence in niche markets like leather goods.


5. Permira

  • Website: permira.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1985
  • Headcount: 501-1000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 8
  • LinkedIn: permira

Permira is a London-based private equity firm founded in 1985, specializing in private equity and credit solutions. The firm partners with management teams and entrepreneurs to drive growth and create long-term value across various sectors, including technology, consumer, healthcare, and services. Notably, Permira has made strategic investments in the leather goods and fashion industries, acquiring brands such as Hugo Boss and Dr Martens, both of which are significant players in the leather goods market. In 2023, Permira also agreed to acquire a majority stake in Gruppo Florence, a company with substantial revenues in the leather goods sector. These transactions reflect Permira's focus on transforming businesses into market leaders, particularly in the fashion and leather goods space.


6. Bpifrance French Tech Accélération


Bpifrance French Tech Accélération is a venture capital investor based in Paris, Île-De-France, France, founded in 2015. As a public entity and financial institution, Bpifrance supports entrepreneurs and businesses in France and internationally through various services, including direct funding and private equity investments. Notably, Bpifrance has participated in several funding rounds for Vestiaire Collective, a global platform for pre-owned fashion, which raised significant amounts in 2021, 2020, and 2019. These transactions highlight Bpifrance's commitment to fostering innovation in the fashion industry, including leather goods, as they aim to enhance the platform's global reach and service offerings. Additionally, Bpifrance's investment in Faircraft, a company that raised funds in 2024, further demonstrates their active role in supporting emerging businesses in related sectors.


7. Chanel

  • Website: chanel.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1883
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 4
  • LinkedIn: chanel

Chanel is a luxury fashion brand founded in 1883, specializing in high-end clothing, accessories, and beauty products. The company operates through boutiques and an online store, catering to affluent consumers seeking elegance and sophistication. In recent years, Chanel has made strategic acquisitions to bolster its leather goods supply chain, including the acquisition of Conceria Gaiera Giovanni in 2024, Bodin-Joyeux in 2013, Mégisserie Richard in 2016, Colomer Leather Group in 2018, and Conceria Samanta in 2019. These transactions highlight Chanel's commitment to high-quality craftsmanship and sustainability in the luxury fashion industry, as well as its focus on securing luxury bag supplies through vertical integration in the leather market.


8. Venrex

  • Website: venrex.partners
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 2002
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 11
  • LinkedIn: venrex

Venrex is a venture capital firm based in London, England, founded in 2002. The firm specializes in early-stage investments in technology-enabled businesses within consumer industries, providing both funding and strategic support to help these businesses grow. Notably, Venrex has invested in several companies in the leather goods sector, including Smythson, which raised funds in seed rounds in 2005 and 2011, and Meli Melo, which also secured seed funding in 2013. These transactions highlight Venrex's commitment to supporting innovative brands in the leather goods market, alongside their broader investment strategy in consumer industries.


9. Eurazeo

  • Website: eurazeo.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
  • Founded year: 1969
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 40
  • LinkedIn: eurazeo

Eurazeo is a prominent investment management firm based in Paris, specializing in private equity, private debt, and real assets. Founded in 1969, the firm has established a strong presence in the investment management landscape, particularly in Europe. Eurazeo focuses on tailored investment strategies aimed at fostering growth and expansion across various sectors, including technology, healthcare, and fashion. Notably, Eurazeo has made significant investments in the leather goods and fashion industry, including a minority stake in Desigual, which raised $393.9 million in a private equity round, and a substantial investment in Vestiaire Collective, which raised over $208 million in a Series I funding round. Their investment in Herschel Supply, a company known for its backpacks and bags, further highlights their engagement in the leather goods market. These transactions reflect Eurazeo's commitment to supporting brands that resonate with contemporary consumer trends, particularly in the fashion and leather goods sectors.


10. Bgf

  • Website: bgf.co.uk
  • Type: Venture Capital
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 2011
  • Headcount: 51-200
  • Number of deals in 2024: 53
  • LinkedIn: bgfinvestments

BGF Investment Management Limited is a venture capital firm based in London, England, founded in 2011. The firm specializes in providing growth funding and value creation support to small and mid-sized businesses in the UK and Ireland. BGF addresses the funding gap in the market through minority investments and extensive support services. Notably, BGF has invested in several companies within the leather goods sector, including Strathberry, a luxury accessories brand that received an £8 million investment to support its growth plans, and Sophia Webster, a British accessories designer that secured £4 million to accelerate its international expansion. Additionally, BGF invested £3.5 million in Moda in Pelle, which, while primarily a footwear brand, also operates in the broader accessories market. These transactions highlight BGF's active role in supporting businesses that are relevant to the leather goods retail industry.


11. Equistone Partners Europe


Equistone Partners Europe is a private equity investment firm based in London, UK, founded in 1979. The firm specializes in management buyouts and growth capital for mid-market companies across Europe, focusing on long-term growth and impressive returns for its investors. Equistone has a diverse portfolio, with significant investments in the retail sector, particularly in leather goods. Notable transactions include the acquisition of Kurt Geiger, a prominent footwear and accessories retailer, and Antler Ltd, a well-known luggage and leather goods brand. These acquisitions highlight Equistone's commitment to investing in companies that operate within the leather goods market, showcasing their expertise and strategic support in this industry.


12. Kering

  • Website: kering.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Paris, Île-De-France, France
  • Founded year: 1963
  • Headcount: 10001+
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: kering

Kering is a Paris-based luxury goods company founded in 1963, specializing in fashion, leather goods, jewelry, and beauty products. The company owns several prestigious brands, including Gucci, Balenciaga, and Yves Saint Laurent, catering to affluent consumers and businesses in the retail sector. Kering focuses on innovation and sustainability in its product offerings, enhancing the luxury experience for its customers. Notably, Kering acquired Brioni in 2011, a brand known for its luxury menswear and leather goods. In 2023, Kering acquired a 30% stake in Valentino for €1.7 billion, a brand with a strong luxury positioning that complements Kering's portfolio. Additionally, Kering's investment in Vestiaire Collective, a platform targeting environmentally conscious consumers, reflects its commitment to sustainability in the luxury sector, which includes leather goods. These transactions highlight Kering's active role in the leather goods market and its strategic focus on expanding its luxury offerings.


13. Cvc

  • Website: cvc.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: Luxembourg
  • Founded year: 2005
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • Number of deals in 2024: 16
  • LinkedIn: cvc-capital-partners

CVC Capital Partners is a prominent investment firm founded in 2005, based in Luxembourg, specializing in private equity, credit, secondaries, and infrastructure. With approximately €193 billion in assets under management for over 1000 clients, including pension funds and institutional investors, CVC focuses on delivering sustainable value and growth through strategic investments. Notably, CVC has made significant acquisitions in the leather goods sector, including the acquisition of Samsonite for $1.1 billion in 2007, a leading brand in luggage and leather goods. They also acquired Pasubio in 2017, which is involved in leather products, and Nazareno Gabrielli, a brand known for its leather goods. These transactions highlight CVC's active role in the leather goods retail industry, alongside their broader investment strategy.


14. Lion Resource Advisors Limited


Lion Resource Advisors Limited, also known as Lion Capital, is a private equity investment firm based in London, England, founded in 2004. The firm specializes in consumer brands and provides investment management services aimed at unlocking growth potential through strategic guidance and financial support. Lion Capital manages a diverse portfolio of over 175 brands, primarily in Europe and North America. Notably, they have made significant investments in the leather goods sector, acquiring brands such as Jimmy Choo in December 2004 and John Varvatos in March 2012. These acquisitions highlight their commitment to the leather goods market, alongside other consumer brands, showcasing their expertise in fostering brand innovation and market expansion.


15. Apax

  • Website: apax.com
  • Type: Private Equity
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 1981
  • Headcount: 201-500
  • Number of deals in 2024: 8
  • LinkedIn: apax-partners

Apax Partners LLP is a private equity firm based in London, England, founded in 1981. The firm specializes in managing investments across various sectors, including technology, internet/consumer, healthcare, and services. Apax collaborates with management teams of high-potential companies to drive growth and innovation, serving institutional investors seeking to enhance their capital through strategic investments in private equity funds. Notably, Apax has made significant investments in the leather goods sector, including the acquisition of Cole Haan LLC from NIKE, Inc. for $570 million in 2013, which is a prominent player in the leather footwear market. Additionally, Apax acquired MATCHESFASHION, a leading global luxury fashion retailer, for $1 billion in 2017, which includes a range of luxury leather goods. These transactions highlight Apax's active role in the leather goods retail industry.


16. Farfetch

  • Website: farfetch.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
  • Founded year: 2020
  • Headcount: 1001-5000
  • LinkedIn: farfetch.com

Farfetch is a corporate investor based in London, England, specializing in luxury fashion and beauty products through its e-commerce platform. Founded in 2020, the company connects consumers with a diverse range of high-end brands and boutiques, offering a wide selection of clothing, accessories, and homeware. Notably, Farfetch has made several strategic acquisitions and investments that enhance its position in the luxury market. These include the acquisition of Browns, a London boutique, and the New Guards Group, which encompasses the fashion label Off-White. Additionally, Farfetch acquired Ambush, a brand that has expanded into ready-to-wear fashion, and Stadium Goods, an online sneaker platform. Their investment in Neiman Marcus Group further solidifies their involvement in the luxury retail space, which includes leather goods. Overall, Farfetch's activities reflect a commitment to expanding its luxury fashion ecosystem, making it a relevant investor in the leather goods sector.


17. Fashion for Good

  • Website: fashionforgood.com
  • Type: Corporate
  • Headquarters: Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands
  • Founded year: 2017
  • Headcount: 11-50
  • Number of deals in 2024: 3
  • LinkedIn: fashionforgood

Fashion for Good is a not-for-profit organization based in Amsterdam, Netherlands, founded in 2017. It focuses on sustainable innovation within the fashion industry by connecting innovators with brands, retailers, and manufacturers to foster collaboration and drive change towards a regenerative industry. The organization provides support, mentorship, and resources to empower its network in adopting sustainable practices. Notably, Fashion for Good has participated in several relevant transactions, including a seed round investment in Biophilica, which is developing a plastic-free leather alternative called Treekind®. This investment highlights their commitment to supporting sustainable alternatives in the leather goods sector. Additionally, they have been involved in funding rounds for companies like Reflaunt, which, while not exclusively focused on leather, operates within the broader fashion ecosystem that includes leather goods. Their investments reflect a strategic interest in promoting sustainability and innovation in the fashion industry, including leather goods.


18. Acton Capital


Acton Capital is a Munich-based venture capital firm founded in 1999, specializing in investing in startups at the Series A stage and beyond. They focus on providing financial backing and strategic guidance to mission-driven teams across various sectors, including technology and eco-friendly consumer goods. Notably, Acton Capital has invested in Koio, a luxury sneaker brand, which raised a total of $9 million in Series A funding. This investment highlights their engagement in the leather goods market, particularly in the footwear segment. Additionally, they have made a minority investment in mytheresa.com, an online luxury fashion retailer, further showcasing their interest in the luxury goods sector. Acton Capital aims to help companies develop tailored growth strategies to achieve long-term success.



Leather Goods Retailers Insights: Key Investors in Europe


InvestorHeadquarterSizeFoundedDeals 2024
LvmhParis, Île-De-France, France10001+198711
Index VenturesLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-200199667
Frasers GroupLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)10001+198220
CrowdcubeLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-20020103
PermiraLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)501-100019858
Bpifrance French Tech AccélérationParis, Île-De-France, France1-102015198
ChanelLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)10001+18834
VenrexLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)11-50200211
EurazeoParis, Île-De-France, France201-500196940
BgfLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-200201153
Equistone Partners EuropeLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)51-20019791
KeringParis, Île-De-France, France10001+19633
CvcLuxembourg1001-5000200516
Lion Resource Advisors LimitedLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)1-1020040
ApaxLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)201-50019818
FarfetchLondon, England, United Kingdom (UK)1001-500020200
Fashion for GoodAmsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands11-5020173
Acton CapitalMunich, Bavaria, Germany11-5019993


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