Luciano Benetton
Luciano Benetton | |
|---|---|
| Born | May 13, 1935 Treviso, Italy |
| Occupation(s) | Entrepreneur, businessman, politician |
| Years active | 1965–present |
| Known for | Co-founder of Benetton Group |
Luciano Benetton (born 13 May 1935) is an Italian billionaire entrepreneur and one of the founding members of the Benetton Group, a worldwide fashion enterprise. He held the position of chairman from 1978 until 2012.
Early life
Originating from Treviso, Italy, Benetton discontinued his education at age 14 following his father's passing to begin working in a garment store. He accumulated savings to purchase a $200 knitting machine and, together with his sister, created their first sweater collection.
Career
In 1965, Luciano, along with his siblings Giuliana, Carlo, and Gilberto, established the Benetton Group. This enterprise expanded into a significant global fashion label. Luciano was elected to the Italian Senate in 1992.
Confronted with decreasing revenues and intensified rivalry, the family withdrew from active management in 2003. In 2006, he introduced the Imago Mundi Collection, showcasing modern art from various international artists.
By May 2015, Forbes assessed Luciano Benetton's combined net worth with his siblings at approximately US$2.9 billion.
Personal life
He is married and has four children, living in Treviso. His son, Alessandro, was chairman of Benetton Group between April 2012 and May 2014.