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With Zanetti Moda, the Italian premium brand has gained an experienced specialist in high-quality blouses and dresses as a partner. Together, they are committed to “Made in Italy,” uncompromising quality, and a clear dedication to specialty retailers. We spoke with Massimiliano Martini and Stefano Zanetti.  

Mr. Martini, what does the partnership with Zanetti Moda mean for Robert Friedman? 

Massimiliano Martini, Owner and Creative Director of Robert Friedman: “A new chapter is beginning for us.” Robert Friedman remains true to its identity—with high-quality materials, a distinctive style, and a clear focus on quality. In Zanetti Moda, we have found a partner that shares our values and has decades of experience in the design and production of high-quality blouses and dresses made in Italy. This gives the brand a strong foundation for the future. 

What can retailers expect from the Spring/Summer 2027 collection? 

Massimiliano Martini: The new collection builds on what Robert Friedman has always stood for: high-quality blouses and dresses made from fine natural fabrics, new fits, and modern silhouettes. Soft cotton fabrics, lightweight linen, and fine cotton muslin are paired with a color palette of harmonious, flowing shades and fresh, modern accents—for a contemporary interpretation of romance and subtle femininity. Our goal is to create products with personality and quality—values that are more important today than ever before. 

Mr. Zanetti, why did you choose Robert Friedman? 

Stefano Zanetti, Chief Executive Officer of Zanetti Moda: Because the brand is a perfect fit for our philosophy. Since 1965, we have been designing and manufacturing high-quality blouses and dresses “Made in Italy” in Vicenza. Quality, precision, and artisanal expertise are always at the heart of what we do. Our goal is to preserve Robert Friedman’s identity and to build on it sustainably through our manufacturing expertise. 

I am convinced that Robert Friedman is a perfect fit for our DNA. For us, quality has always been more than just a promise—it is part of our corporate culture. We want our quality to speak for itself and be recognized by our customers. 

What are the distinctive features of the new collection? 

Stefano Zanetti: The collection unmistakably bears Robert Friedman’s signature style. The color palettes, natural materials, and timeless bestsellers remain intact. At the same time, we were able to draw on Zanetti Moda’s extensive expertise and archives. This creates new inspiration without altering the brand’s identity. 

What message would you like to convey to your business partners in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland? 

Massimiliano Martini: Germany, Austria, and Switzerland remain our most important markets. Many of our partners have been working with Robert Friedman for many years. We want to send them a clear message: The brand is back—with the same signature style, a strong industrial foundation, and a long-term strategy. Our retail partners can count on us to consistently develop Robert Friedman further while preserving what has made the brand successful. 

Many brands are now turning to direct-to-consumer. They are deliberately taking a different approach. 

Stefano Zanetti: Yes, quite deliberately. Robert Friedman remains a strictly B2B company. We have no plans to open our own stores or launch our own online sales channel. Our retail partners invest in the brand, build its visibility in the market, and provide personalized service to their customers. We want to protect that trust. Our success depends on the success of our retail partners. That’s why we’ll continue to do everything we can to strengthen the specialty retail sector and avoid competing with our customers. Specialty retailers are and will remain Robert Friedman’s most important partners. 

What direction should Robert Friedman take in the coming years? 

Stefano Zanetti: Our initial focus is on further strengthening our core markets—Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. At the same time, we see growth potential in select international markets. In doing so, we are pursuing a clear strategy: selective distribution, uncompromising quality, and long-term partnerships with our retail partners. 

The new collection is on display at the Heritage Showrooms: 

MUNICH SHOWROOM 

August 1 – August 14, 2026 

22 Wilhelm-Wagenfeld-Straße,
, 80807 Munich 

DÜSSELDORF SHOWROOM 

July 21–July 29, 2026 

Kaiserswerther Straße 120
, 40474 Düsseldorf