This week in the world of fashion, there were several significant developments in financial performance, campaigns, store launches, and brand partnerships.
One standout piece of news was the impressive full-year sales report from the Prada Group for 2023. The report highlighted a remarkable 82% surge in sales at Miu Miu during the fourth quarter of the previous year. Announcing its financial results on Thursday, the Italian fashion group disclosed a 17% increase in net revenue at constant exchange rates, reaching €4.73 billion ($5.15 billion) for the previous year, surpassing analysts' expectations of €4.67 billion.
In the fourth quarter, Prada claimed the top spot on the Lyst index, which monitors brand and product searches as well as social media mentions. Miu Miu followed closely at number two. Notably, Prada's brushed leather loafers, priced at €930, emerged as among the most sought-after products, according to Lyst data.
Despite its smaller size, Miu Miu has garnered popularity among shoppers who regard it as a trendsetter. The brand unveiled its autumn/winter collection in Paris, featuring models adorned in sunglasses, long-sleeved gloves, and cropped leather jackets. Noteworthy attendees included Sydney Sweeney, recognized for her role in the HBO series Euphoria, among other celebrities.
Retail sales for Miu Miu surged by an impressive 82% in the final quarter of 2023, contrasting with a 10% uptick at Prada.
Prada's performance stands out amidst a varied performance within the luxury sector, which is navigating a slowdown following the post-pandemic boom years. Prada's shares have climbed by 25% in Hong Kong since the beginning of the year, outperforming competitors such as LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE and Kering SA.
Notably, retail sales in the Asia Pacific region, excluding Japan—Prada's largest market—saw a notable 24% annual increase, while sales in the Americas remained steady. Sales in Japan surged by an impressive 44%. Earnings before interest and taxes exceeded expectations.
Looking ahead to 2024, Chief Executive Officer Andrea Guerra acknowledged prevailing macroeconomic and geopolitical uncertainties but expressed the company's commitment to achieving growth rates above the market average.
Miuccia Prada, the granddaughter of the group's founder, serves as the creative director for Miu Miu and shares these responsibilities at Prada with Raf Simons.