What Happened to Kate Spade and Why She Sold
Kate Spade was an American designer who founded Kate Spade New York in 1993 and built it into a global accessories brand known for handbags, apparel, and home goods. She later sold the company as part of a broader strategy to exit the business while the brand was still growing and attracting premium customers worldwide. The sale allowed her to step back from daily operations and focus on other creative and personal priorities. Read why founders often sell their companies.
In 2017, Kate Spade died by suicide, and the company continued under new leadership as part of the larger owner. The sale had already been completed years earlier, but her death renewed public interest in the story behind the brand and its ownership changes. The company kept operating as a recognizable luxury lifestyle label with stores and wholesale partners across multiple countries.
Who Bought Kate Spade and What the Deal Was
Capri Holdings as the Final Owner
Capri Holdings Limited acquired Kate Spade in 2017 as part of its strategy to build a portfolio of global fashion brands. The deal gave Capri control of the Kate Spade name, trademarks, and wholesale operations worldwide. Capri already owned other major labels such as Versace and Jimmy Choo, and Kate Spade became one of the brands in that group. View SEC filings related to the acquisition.
Deal Value and Structure
The acquisition price was reported at about $2.4 billion, covering the equity and debt of the company at the time. The transaction was structured as a cash deal that gave Capri full ownership of Kate Spade and its related intellectual property. After the purchase, Capri integrated Kate Spade into its existing global distribution, marketing, and retail networks.
What Kate Spade Became After the Sale
Brand Positioning and Revenue
Under Capri Holdings, Kate Spade remained positioned as a contemporary luxury brand focused on accessories, apparel, and lifestyle products. The brand continued to sell through department stores, specialty retailers, and its own e-commerce platform. See how luxury brands grow after acquisition.
Recent Performance and Ownership
In recent years, Capri Holdings has reported Kate Spade as part of its larger group revenue while managing the brand alongside Versace and Jimmy Choo. The company has continued to refresh the brand with new product lines and collaborations to maintain relevance in the competitive luxury market. Check Capri Holdings latest results.