Stella McCartney signed a partnership with LVMH. LVMH is the world’s largest luxury goods group. It was the first large company in France to create a sustainability department, more than 25 years ago. Stella McCartney is one of Britain’s leading designers, who’s also the flag-waver for all-things cruelty-free and sustainable. The aim is to accelerate the development of Stella McCartney brand globally. McCartney will retain controlling stake, will stay at the creative helm of her brand and will also continue to be its public face. She will also have a wider role within LVMH in relation to its development as a sustainability-focused group. McCartney’s pioneering approach to building her label around ethical and environmental issues has been a decisive factor in the deal. The link-up emphasises LVMH’s commitment to sustainability. In turn McCartney can gain from the experience, financing, expertise and networks of a giant luxury group.

Stella McCartney split from Kering last year. Kering had backed her label from its early days. She was approached by various parties expressing their wish to partner and invest in the house but she settled on LVMH because of the passion and commitment LVMH expressed towards the Stella McCartney brand and its acceptance of Stella McCartney as the global leader in sustainable luxury fashion.