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Alexander McQueen's drastic restructuring threatens jobs and production

A legendary fashion house stands at a crossroads. With unions demanding answers and Kering backing sweeping changes, what's next for McQueen's workforce?

The image shows a Salvatore Ferragamo store in Milan, Italy. The building has glass walls and...
The image shows a Salvatore Ferragamo store in Milan, Italy. The building has glass walls and doors, and inside there are mannequins wearing the latest fashion. There are also racks of shoes and other items, as well as lights illuminating the store. The floor is visible at the bottom of the image.

Alexander McQueen's drastic restructuring threatens jobs and production

Alexander McQueen is facing a financial crisis that has pushed the luxury brand into an emergency phase. The company's management has warned of an 'extremely critical' outlook for 2022–2025, prompting a major restructuring plan. This includes potential job cuts and changes to production across its operations.

The troubles began in October when McQueen launched a global strategic review. This process could lead to redundancies in its London head office and Italian production sites. Reports suggest around 54 jobs in Italy may be affected, though details on specific locations remain unclear.

Unions are particularly worried about the future of McQueen's plants in Scandicci, Novara, and Parabiago. They have called for transparency on industrial plans and supply chain strategies before any major changes take place. Luca de Meo, CEO of Kering—McQueen's parent company—will meet Italian unions on February 5 to discuss the brand's future in the country.

The restructuring plan outlines cuts equal to one third of the workforce, alongside a reorganisation of production to reduce costs. McQueen is also considering a formal consultation with unions in Italy, aligning with its wider global review. Meanwhile, Kering continues to back McQueen's transformation, aiming to strengthen its position in the luxury market.

Kering's financial results for 2025 will be released on February 10. A capital markets day is scheduled for April 16 in Florence, where de Meo is expected to present his strategic plans in detail.

The proposed restructuring could reshape McQueen's operations, with significant job losses and production changes on the horizon. The outcome of the February 5 meeting with unions will likely determine the next steps for the brand's Italian workforce. Kering's ongoing support suggests the changes are part of a broader effort to secure McQueen's long-term stability in the luxury sector.

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