Dolce & Gabbana appoints Stefano Cantino as Co-CEO in leadership reset
Synopsis
Dolce & Gabbana has appointed Stefano Cantino as co-CEO alongside Alfonso Dolce after a leadership restructuring in early 2026. First reported by Bloomberg, the move follows Stefano Gabbana’s exit as chairman. The change comes as global luxury demand slows across key regions, including the United States and Asia.
Dolce & Gabbana appointed Stefano Cantino co-CEO alongside Alfonso Dolce after leadership changes. The move follows Stefano Gabbana’s exit and comes amid slower global luxury market growth.
Key Highlights
- Stefano Cantino appointed co-CEO alongside Alfonso Dolce in early 2026 leadership restructuring
- The development following Stefano Gabbana’s exit as chairman in 2025
- Company reported about €1.9 billion in latest revenues across global operations
- Global luxury growth slowed to around 4% in 2025, led by mixed regional demand
Dolce & Gabbana has appointed Stefano Cantino as co-chief executive officer, introducing a dual leadership structure as the Italian luxury group adjusts its top management. Cantino will work alongside Alfonso Dolce, who has moved from CEO to chairman.
The development was first reported by Bloomberg, which said the appointment took effect in early 2026 following internal leadership changes.
The shift comes after co-founder Stefano Gabbana stepped down as chairman at the end of 2025 as part of a governance transition.
Leadership Shift Signals Operational Focus
The new co-CEO structure brings external leadership into the company’s executive ranks. Stefano Cantino previously held senior roles at Gucci and spent several years at Prada, giving him experience across global luxury operations.
Alfonso Dolce, a long-time executive within the business, now serves as chairman. The change reflects a redistribution of responsibilities at the top level.
Market Pressures Shape Timing
The appointment comes as luxury brands face slower demand growth across major markets. According to the Bain & Company report, global personal luxury goods sales grew by around 4% in 2025, compared with stronger growth in earlier years.
The United States remains one of the largest luxury markets, though spending has stabilised. In Australia, demand has been supported by high-income consumers and tourism, but retail data has shown more measured growth compared to the post-pandemic surge.
China, previously a key driver, has seen softer demand, while Europe continues to benefit from international tourist spending.
Financial Position and Global Footprint
Dolce & Gabbana reported revenues of approximately €1.9 billion in its latest available financial disclosures.
The company operates across fashion, accessories, and beauty, with distribution spanning Europe, North America, and Asia.
Industry insights from McKinsey & Company highlight that luxury brands are increasingly adjusting leadership structures and cost strategies to respond to uneven regional demand.
FAQs
Q1. Who is the new co-CEO of Dolce & Gabbana?
Stefano Cantino has been appointed co-CEO, working alongside chairman Alfonso Dolce.
Q2. Why is Dolce & Gabbana changing its leadership structure?
The shift follows Stefano Gabbana’s exit as chairman and reflects internal governance changes.
Q3. How is the global luxury market performing currently?
Growth slowed to about 4% in 2025, with stable demand in the US and weaker growth in China.
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Pooja Malik is a business journalist with over six years of experience covering startups, entrepreneurship, and emerging trends. She has previously worked with leading media platforms such as YourStory Media and BW BusinessWorld, where she reported on business, policy, and market developments. Currently, she serves as Editor at The Inspirepreneur Magazine, where she writes and edits stories across business, lifestyle, and travel, with a focus on clarity, accuracy, and reader relevance.
