Kenjo Boutiques, a longstanding name in Malta’s upmarket fashion industry, has officially closed its doors after 43 years in operation.

Founded and led by Alex and Sandra Genovese, the brand built a reputation for introducing high-end fashion to the Maltese market. According to the brand, from as early as the 1980s, Kenjo was sourcing and showcasing collections from major fashion capitals including Paris, Milan, London and Madrid, at a time when Malta’s exposure to international fashion was still limited.

The business evolved into a broader operation under the GTI Group, which at its peak ran five outlets across the island, including Mikoshi in St Julian’s, Ginza in Sliema, and flagship stores in Valletta. Over the decades, the group represented more than 40 global brands, including Moschino, Dolce & Gabbana, Yves Saint Laurent, Nina Ricci and Oscar de la Renta.

A defining feature of the Kenjo model was its emphasis on exclusivity. Items were often sourced as one-off pieces, with no duplication on the island. This approach was further reinforced in the early 1990s through the introduction of a then-innovative digital “engagement blocking” system, ensuring that garments selected for specific events remained unique to the client.

Beyond retail, Kenjo Boutiques became closely associated with Malta’s social and cultural calendar, dressing clients for high-profile weddings, red carpet events and international occasions. The brand also maintained links with global fashion networks, including Mario Genovese’s involvement in the Paris- and Hong Kong-based A.I.P.P.D. consortium, which focused on supporting emerging designers.

Commenting on the closure, Sue Rossi, fashion consultant and owner of Modelle International, reflected on the company’s long-standing role within the local industry: “Glad I have been part of GTI groups from the beginning with various fashion shows and launches.”