In 2023, the Italian eyewear group Marcolin has announced net sales of 558.3 million euros. This figure rose by 2 percent between 2022 and 2023, during which time the group also posted a net profit of 10.2 million euros.
EBITDA (earnings before interest, tax, depreciation and amortisation) came to 78.1 million euros, up 27.9 percent on the previous year’s figure of 61.0 million euros. The impact on net sales was a positive 14.0 percent. On the Asian market, Marcolin saw its performance increase by 81.5 percent. In the EMEA region, the company posted a slight increase of 1.7 percent.
Unlike other major fashion groups, Marcolin managed to post positive figures despite a difficult international geopolitical context, with inflation and wars. The company also cited “logistical complexity” as one of the difficulties encountered during the year.
Contracts and ambitions
In 2023, Marcolin finalised two transactions that it considers to be significant: the Tom Ford Eyewear licensing agreement and the acquisition of ic! Berlin. The group strengthened its presence in the Central American market with the acquisition of the remaining 49 percent of its subsidiary in Mexico.
Between the end of 2023 and the first months of 2024, Marcolin announced licence renewals with Pucci, Zegna, Gcds and Max&Co. The group has also signed an exclusive licensing agreement with Christian Louboutin, which will see the brand make its debut in the eyewear category for the first time, as early as 2025.
Meanwhile, Marcolin is still looking for a buyer. According to information shared by the Financial Times, the investment fund PAI Partners, which owns the Marcolin group, has announced its intention to sell it and estimates its value at 1.3 billion euros. Groups such as Kering and Essilor-Luxottica are said to be among the suitors.
This article originally appeared on FashionUnited.FR. Translation and edit by: Rachel Douglass.