Italian jeweler and luxury goods retailer Bulgari (usually written "BVLGARI") is named for its founder, Italian Greek emigrant, Sotirios Bulgari Βούλγαρης). The company was founded in 1884 in Rome, Italy. The current flagship store was opened in 1905 by Sotirio's sons Costantino and Giorgio and the store quickly became a place where the world's rich and famous came for the unique, high quality jewelry designs. Although the company made a name for itself with jewelry, today it is a recognized luxury brand that markets several product lines including watches, handbags, fragrances, accessories, and hotels.

Bulgary opened its first international locations in New York, Paris, Geneva and Monte Carlo in the 1970's. Today Bulgari has more than 150 Bulgari retail locations worldwide.

In 1984 Sotirio's grandsons Paolo and Nicola Bulgari are named Chairman and Vice-Chairman of the company and nephew Francesco Trapani was named CEO. Trapani's goal to diversify the company was started in the early 1990s with the release of the Bulgari perfume line. Under his tenure the company has established itself as a luxury goods brand recognized throughout the world.

In 1995 the company was listed on the Borsa Italiana. The company has seen 150 percent revenue growth between 1997 and 2003. Currently outside investors hold about 45 percent of the company's stock.

In 2001, Bulgari, along with Ritz-Carlton Hotels founded Bulgari Hotels and Resorts. Bulgari has two hotels the first opened in Milan in 2004 and the other is scheduled to open in October of 2006 in Bali.

External link

• BVLGARI Official site

Jewellers | Companies of Italy | Luxury brands | Watchmakers | Greek Diaspora | 1884 establishments

Bulgari | ブルガリ | Bulgari