Gucci Group N.V. is one of the world's leading multi-brand luxury goods companies. Through the brands Gucci, Yves Saint Laurent, Bottega Veneta, YSL Beaute, Boucheron, Sergio Rossi, Bedat & Co., Roger & Gallet, Alexander McQueen, Stella McCartney and Balenciaga, the Group designs, produces and distributes high-quality personal luxury goods, including ready-to-wear, handbags, luggage, small leather goods, shoes, timepieces, jewellery, ties and scarves, eyewear, perfumes, cosmetics and skincare products. The Group directly operates stores in major markets throughout the world and wholesales products through franchise stores, duty-free boutiques and leading department and specialty stores. Gucci Group is owned by PPR, a global player in retail and luxury goods.

Like many other high-fashion companies, Gucci began as a small, family-owned saddlery and leather goods store. Guccio Gucci was the son of an Italian merchant from the country's northern manufacturing region. As a young man, and quickly built a reputation for quality, hiring the best craftsmen he could find to work in his atelier. In 1938, Gucci expanded and a boutique was opened in Rome. Guccio was responsible for designing many of the company's most notable products. In 1947, Gucci introduced the bamboo handle handbag, which is still a company mainstay. During the 1950s, Gucci also developed the trademark striped webbing, which was derived from the saddle girth, and the suede moccasin with a metal bit...