Current Owner of Kate Spade
The brand Kate Spade New York is currently owned by Capri Holdings Limited, the global fashion group formerly known as Michael Kors Holdings. Capri acquired Kate Spade in a deal that closed in early 2017 after the original founders sold the company. The transaction was structured as a cash acquisition, and the brand now operates as a distinct division within Capri's portfolio alongside other luxury labels. For background on the founders, see the history section below.
Capri Holdings is a publicly traded company listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker CPRI, and its ownership structure is distributed among institutional and retail shareholders. As of the latest available public filings, the largest shareholders include major asset managers and mutual funds that hold significant blocks of CPRI stock. The company's board and executive team oversee brand strategy, with the Kate Spade segment reporting within the broader accessories and lifestyle division. You can review Capri's latest financial statements on the SEC website.
Acquisition Details and Purchase Price
Capri Holdings acquired Kate Spade in a deal valued at approximately 2.4 billion dollars, which included cash, assumed debt, and contingent consideration tied to performance targets. The acquisition gave Capri control of the Kate Spade name, intellectual property, and global distribution networks across handbags, apparel, shoes, and accessories. The transaction was one of several strategic moves by Capri to expand its luxury and premium brand portfolio beyond Michael Kors.
The deal was announced in mid-2017 and completed shortly after, with the original founders and early investors receiving proceeds based on the agreed valuation. Post-acquisition, Capri integrated Kate Spade into its existing management infrastructure while maintaining the brand's design identity and retail presence. Financial details of the transaction are discussed in Capri's investor presentations and regulatory filings.
Brand Performance and Recent Developments
Since the acquisition, Kate Spade has continued to operate as a standalone brand within Capri's portfolio, with dedicated design teams and a global retail footprint. The brand's revenue contribution is reported as part of Capri's accessories segment, which includes several other labels, and management provides periodic updates on brand-specific sales trends. Kate Spade maintains a presence in major department stores, specialty retailers, and direct-to-consumer channels, including e-commerce platforms.
Recent public data shows that Capri has focused on optimizing the Kate Spade brand through refreshed product lines, store remodels, and expanded digital marketing efforts. The company's earnings reports and investor calls include commentary on brand-level performance, margin trends, and strategic priorities for the label. For additional context on Capri's broader strategy, see the company's official investor relations page.