2025 starts off tough for the group. BenettonThe historic clothing chain has decided to close more than 400 stores worldwide. In the most affected areas,Italy and especially the south. But what are the causes of this crisis and what results await us?
Benetton closes stores worldwide: more than 400
During 2025, Benetton will close for good 419 stores Worldwide, the total has been reduced from 3,500 to about 3,000 institutions. A decisive cut in its network of sales outlets follows a difficult 2024, characterized by economic losses and internal restructuring. The closures, which have already begun, have affected Italy as a whole. 100 stores off in the last year. The cities included are Bari, Catania, Palermo, Novara and Foggia.
Despite economic difficulties, Benetton Group’s direct stores recorded growth. Growth of +7% in 2024 compared to the previous year. The increase in the areas of NortheastEspecially in Veneto and Trentino-Alto Adige, where sales have reached. 30 million euros With the addition of +8% Compared to 2023. This is a positive figure, but insufficient to restore the group’s accounts.
A symbol of the restructuring process is the Rizzoli street store in Bologna, located a few steps from Piazza Maggiore, which was converted from a franchised shop to a direct shop. In other words, the group wishes to focus its resources on directly controlled stores, seeking to improve efficiency and reduce operating costs.
To support the restructuring plan, Benetton has entered into an agreement with the unions that provides incentives for voluntary resignations of up to 30%, with the possibility of transferring employees within the Benetton network.
How is the situation in Italy and the south?
The focus is on Benetton’s decision to reduce its presence, as already mentioned, mainly in the southern regions. Benetton has chosen to close most of its franchised stores, those that have failed to generate enough revenue.
in particular, 63% closure There is concern about southern Italy, with strong concentrations between Calabria, Puglia and Sicily, particularly between Bari and Catania. However, the group does not rule out the possibility that some of these stores may be reopened. Direct shopsinternally organized. In fact, some of the stores that won’t close will be repurposed, as happened with the Bologna store.
The restructuring plan comes in the wake of the company’s heavy losses. Over the past ten years, Benetton has accumulated A loss of 1.6 billion euros. Despite the closure of the stores, the group hopes that the direct stores will stabilize the company’s finances.
