The Italian off the peg fashion house MARIELLA BURANI (turnover of more than EUR 200 million foreseen in 2001) announced the acquisition of 50% in the shoemaker BALDININI for an undisclosed sum. It also has the option to buy an additional 10% within one year from the founder Gimmi Baldinini. This shoemaker, which produces 85% of its turnover from exports and has a network of 29 shops, should have sales of around EUR 20 million in 2001.