Champion unveils Maurizio Donadi as their new creative director, set to take charge from 1 December.
- Donadi brings a wealth of experience from roles at Ralph Lauren, Armani, and Diesel.
- He will guide Champion’s creative direction, enhancing product lines and brand campaigns.
- Authentic Brands Group’s recent acquisition aims to strengthen Champion’s position globally.
- Strategic partnerships are underway to expand Champion’s reach across continents.
Champion, the renowned American sportswear brand, has appointed Maurizio Donadi as its new creative director, effective from 1 December. This strategic move is expected to infuse the brand with fresh ideas and innovative designs. Donadi, a veteran of the fashion industry, has an impressive resume, having worked with big names such as Ralph Lauren, Armani, and Diesel.
Donadi began his illustrious career at the Benetton Group during the 1980s and early 1990s. His journey in fashion took a significant turn when he joined Diesel in 1994 as the US director of retail. Over the years, Donadi climbed the ranks, taking on roles such as executive vice president at Giorgio Armani from 1999 to 2006, followed by a global senior vice president position at Polo Ralph Lauren from 2006 to 2009, and later contributing to Levi Strauss between 2009 and 2012.
Aside from his corporate achievements, Donadi is known for founding the vintage fashion retailer, Transnomadica, in Los Angeles in 2012. Bringing his experience to Champion, Donadi will oversee all creative aspects of the brand’s product lines and seasonal collections, collaborating on brand campaigns and strategy.
Lorenzo Moretti, Champion’s Europe CEO, expressed high expectations for Donadi, stating that his expertise in design and vision for the future would be invaluable as they aim to redefine Champion’s place within the sports and lifestyle sector.
The recent acquisition of Champion by Authentic Brands Group for an estimated value of $1.2bn (£940m) to $1.5bn (£1.2bn) is a significant milestone. The company, which owns over 50 global brands, is poised to enhance Champion’s market position further. Under this new ownership, AMG Companies will steer Champion’s core operations in the US and Canada, while GearCo, under Ames Watson, will manage its long-running collegiate apparel business.
Champion’s global distribution strategy involves partnerships with BBC International for footwear and Gildan for printwear in North America. In Central and South America, Falic Group will handle clothing and accessories, with IB Group leading in Mexico. Further expansions and new partnerships are anticipated across Europe, Asia, and Australia in the coming months.
With Maurizio Donadi at the creative helm, Champion is poised for a dynamic evolution in the sportswear industry.
