Italian luxury brand Brunello Cucinelli, known for its $3,000 cashmere sweaters, bet big on department stores, a strategy now in the spotlight as iconic US High Street retailer Saks struggles to pay back debts.
Saks Global, created after Saks Fifth Avenue parent Hudson’s Bay Company bought rival Neiman Marcus, saw its CEO depart this month, amid reports it was preparing for bankruptcy after missing an over $100 million interest payment.
That’s put a harsh spotlight on the strategy of firms…

