Leonardo Ferragamo, fifth son of Italian fashion label Salvatore Ferragamo’s eponymous founder, was in town to celebrate the reopening of their flagship Canton Road store. He spoke to us about his childhood, his special relationship with Hong Kong and his various projects.

Was fashion a personal interest or did you join the family company out of a sense of duty?

My father, Salvatore Ferragamo, immersed all his children into the world of fashion at an early age. It’s impossible to be surrounded by such passion and dedication and not feel at least slightly invested. I also watched my elder siblings enter the company and achieve personal successes. Call it sibling rivalry, but it made me want to do the same.

What significance does Hong Kong have for you and the Salvatore Ferragamo brand?

My first trip to Hong Kong was also my first trip to Asia. I came to explore the region years ago as Director of Commercial Activity for Salvatore Ferragamo. The trip left me with a contradictory sense of frustration and excitement. Excitement at the vibrancy and potential I found, and frustration that we hadn’t already tapped into the markets here.

I returned to Florence to share my findings with the family. Four days later, I was on a plane back to Hong Kong. We opened our first store here in 1986, and the city became our gateway to the rest of Asia.

Hong Kong remains special for my family to this day – the fact that we are all in town to celebrate the reopening of our Canton Road flagship store demonstrates that clearly.

Aside from your role in your family’s company, what other projects are you involved in?

I am chairman of Nautor Swan, a highly regarded Finnish luxury sailing yacht builder. The company builds fantastic sailing vessels for both leisure and competitive use. We just celebrated our 50th anniversary.

I’m also president of the Lungarno Collection, a luxury Italian hotel group. We have many properties in Florence and one in Rome. Each one has a unique personality and architecture, but all are dedicated to providing guests the utmost in service and luxury.

Do you find it difficult to balance such diverse interests?

It can definitely be challenging at times, but it’s a challenge I thoroughly enjoy. I’m truly blessed because each project I’m involved with is something that I’m deeply passionate about.   

Thank You.

 Text: Tenzing Thondup