Guess, the American upscale brand, has just been acquired by businesswoman Diane Izzo following a deal signed with Halmann Vella Group.

Ms Izzo sees this takeover as a chance to expand the presence of the brand, which has been operating in Malta since 2001.

“Our target is to double its present turnover in the next three years. We have already set our sights on opening Guess Kids in the near future,” Ms Izzo said.

The takeover includes two clothing and accessories outlets in Bay Street Shopping Complex, St Julian’s, and The Point, in Sliema, as well as an accessories store in Bisazza Street, Sliema. Ms Izzo recently acquired, also from Halmann Vella, the luxury Italian shirt brand 7 Camicie, as well as Brooks Brothers, one of the oldest clothiers in the US.

Her portfolio includes other prestigious franchises such as fashion brands Terranova, Calliope, Liu Jo Donna, Liu Jo Uomo, Max & Co., and Make-Up Store, as well as coffee house Caffe Pascucci.