Lapo Elkann.
NEW YORK—The Modo Group announced the new organizational structure of the Italia Independent brand, following the acquisition signed on September 12, as reported in VMAIL. The acquisition by the Modo Group concerns only the Italia Independent brand asset, which will be introduced to the global markets in the Spring of 2024. In this new chapter for the Italia Independent brand, founder Lapo Elkann will take on the role of creative director of Italia Independent.

Alessandro Lanaro, founder and CEO of the Modo Group, said, “The founder of Italia Independent is its beating heart. I am delighted that Lapo will accompany us in the relaunch of this unique and pioneering brand, contributing his style and genius. Lapo and I are in complete agreement on the direction to be taken and I am convinced that with his involvement as creative director we will be able to renew the magic that captivated a large community of customers and consumers at the height of the brand’s golden years.”

Lapo Elkann said, “I enthusiastically accepted Alessandro Lanaro’s proposal to entrust me with the creative direction of the brand. I can’t wait to work with his team to design the first collection for the Modo Group. Italia Independent is a brand to which I am emotionally attached, and it is a real pleasure for me to be able to continue to put my creativity at the service of the brand. I am sure that Modo, thanks to its excellent track record, will be able to lead it to new successes.”

 
Rebecca Giefer, CEO of Modo Americas, said, “We look forward to bringing the new Italia Independent collection, under the creative direction of Lapo Elkann, to our customers in the U.S. and Americas.”

The first Italia Independent collection within the Modo Group is scheduled for Spring/Summer 2024. It will be made in Italy and distributed through an exclusive network of opticians worldwide.