### A New Chapter for Church’s: CEO Denni Manzatto’s Vision for Heritage Footwear
During the bustling energy of London’s Frieze Week, a unique gathering took place at The Hart. While the nearby Chiltern Firehouse remained quiet, the atmosphere inside the event was electric, blending the worlds of high fashion and fine art. Amidst the crowd of industry professionals and notable figures like Alexa Chung, the true stars of the evening weren’t the guests, but the footwear on display. The event served as a sophisticated showcase for Church’s latest offerings, including the timeless Stanhope Chelsea boot, the refined Skipton Oxford, and the elegant Sidley lace-up, complemented by the women’s Sloane collection, highlighted by the sleek Susan ankle boot.
#### Bridging Heritage and Modern Strategy
Church’s, a brand with a storied history dating back to its 1873 founding in Northampton, has been a key member of the Prada Group since 1999. The brand’s current trajectory is being steered by Denni Manzatto, who stepped into the role of CEO in 2022.
Manzatto’s connection to the brand is deeply rooted in his professional history. Before his tenure with the Prada Group began in 2013, he spent years in the private equity sector in London. During that time, he became a frequent visitor to the iconic Church’s boutique on Jermyn Street, which has been a fixture of the area since 1921. This long-standing familiarity with the brand’s craftsmanship informs his current leadership approach.
#### Why Church’s Remains a Pillar of the Prada Group
Under the umbrella of a global luxury powerhouse, Church’s maintains a distinct identity. According to Manzatto, the brand’s influence extends far beyond its annual revenue figures. “Church’s has a higher than proportional meaning for the Prada Group relative to its business size,” he notes.
This sentiment underscores the importance of heritage brands in today’s luxury market. While the global footwear market is projected to reach significant valuations-with the luxury segment continuing to grow as consumers prioritize “quiet luxury” and durable, high-quality craftsmanship-Church’s remains committed to its “Made in the UK” roots. By balancing its traditional manufacturing techniques with the modern, strategic oversight of the Prada Group, the brand is positioning itself to remain a staple for those who value longevity over fleeting trends.
