Manolo Blahnik acquires footwear manufacturer

Manolo Blahnik, the UK-based luxury footwear designer, has acquired his long-standing Italian footwear manufacturer Calzaturificio Re Marcello.

Blahnik has been working with the Vigevano-based factory since 1990, which is home to 77 craftsmen. Its chairman Bruno Re will continue to work with the Manolo Blahnik team moving forward to ensure continuity.

The brand's CEO Kristina Blahnik said in statement: “Calzaturificio Re Marcello is synonymous with craftsmanship of exceptional quality in our industry and we are delighted to have been able to bring such a valued partner into the family.

“This acquisition will be our first atelier and manufacturing facility, creating greater creative and operational flexibility for the future of our business.”

Last July Manolo Blahnik opened its first ever men's boutique in London's Burlington Arcade. It is only the second standalone store for the brand in London with the first having been opened 40 years ago in Chelsea. Last Spring the brand made a move into e-commerce in partnership with Farfetch.