Italian heritage hatmaker Borsalino is set to formally enter the China market through a new partnership with Shanghai-based Essence Group, outlining a five-year plan covering both retail and e-commerce development. The brand will open its first directly operated store in mainland China, in Shanghai, during the first half of the year, serving as a template for future boutiques across Greater China. Additional mono-brand stores are planned in key luxury cities, though timelines remain undisclosed.

Essence Group will also manage Borsalino’s local e-commerce rollout, including the launch of an online flagship store later this year, as well as operations on platforms such as Xiaohongshu, Douyin, and WeChat. Founded in 1857, Borsalino is among Italy’s oldest accessories houses. The move marks a measured expansion strategy aimed at building a long-term brand presence in China rather than pursuing rapid scale.

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