Dsquared2 breaks up with OTB and takes over production and distribution

On 29 March, the brothers Dean and Dan Caten, founders of Dsquared2, announced the immediate termination of their licensing agreement with Staff International, the production and logistics arm of OTB (Only The Brave), Renzo Rosso’s conglomerate. Since 2002, Staff International had been the exclusive licensee of the brand, but now control of the production and distribution of Dsquared2’s ready-to-wear collections returns to the group’s own hands.

The transition, effective immediately, begins with the spring-summer 2026 pre-collection. In a brief statement, Dsquared2 expressed its gratitude to those who contributed to this collaboration, with the hope of continuing partnerships in the future. An amicable closure, but with an unexpected twist.

Shortly afterwards, OTB hit back. In a press release issued in the afternoon, the Italian conglomerate’s platform stressed that Staff International had filed a lawsuit on 27 March with the Milan court, requesting the full execution of the licensing agreement. According to Staff, the agreement was renewed in 2010 for 17 years, with a scheduled expiry in 2027. The firm strongly rejected any attempt at early termination, asserting that there are no legal conditions for it and reserving the right to take ‘all necessary measures’ to protect its contractual commitments and reputation.

The Caten twins, Dean and Dan, born in Willowdale, Ontario, are no newcomers to the industry. Their career began in 1984, and after a stint at Parson’s School of Design in New York, they came to Italy in 1991. In 1994, they launched their first men’s collection, marking the beginning of a unique style that fused fashion, music and theatricality. Today, Dsquared2 is synonymous with alternative luxury, a perfect blend of Canadian irreverence and meticulous Italian tailoring.

Over the years, Dsquared2’s collections have evolved, gaining sophistication and elegance without losing that sexy and provocative essence that characterises them. The motto ‘Born in Canada, Made in Italy’ is still the central theme of the brand, which recently celebrated its 30th anniversary with an impressive fashion show in Milan, the city that has been its headquarters since its beginnings.

As for OTB, Renzo Rosso’s conglomerate experienced difficulties in 2024, with a 4.4% drop in revenues, totalling €1.8 billion. Although certain regions such as Japan and North America showed positive performance, the company faces financial challenges as it continues to invest heavily in innovation and retail expansion. Despite these ups and downs, key brands such as Maison Margiela and Diesel continue to show growth, demonstrating the group’s resilience.

Dsquared2 unveils its Pre-Fall 2025 collection.