Armani gains direct control of UK sales business

MILAN (Reuters) – Fashion designer Giorgio Armani is taking direct control of his sales business in Britain to improve efficiency in the retail sector, which has become a revenue-spinner for luxury makers amid economic turmoil. Armani said in a statement on Tuesday he had agreed to take control of his UK wholesale and retail business from long-term retail partner Club 21 after 23 years of cooperation. The 1.8-billion-euro Armani empire is among top luxury makers that have moved to manage their businesses internally, reducing costs in the long term and boosting profitability. …