Milan luxury district closes following weekend unrest

High-end retailers in Milan’s Quadrilatero della Moda, including Chanel, Hermès, and Pomellato, have closed their stores following weekend clashes and looting near Piazza del Duomo. Merchants have reportedly cleared merchandise from window displays and emptied storefronts as a precaution against further violence.

Confcommercio Milano Secretary-General Marco Barbieri estimated property damage at approximately €1 million, noting that the unrest has also led to lost sales and cancellations in local hotels and restaurants. The demonstrations, which initially began over rising costs and public services, escalated into looting and violence.

In response, the Italian government is considering new security measures. Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini announced plans to deploy 500 additional troops to Milan, while Deputy Prime Minister Antonio Tajani stated the government would respond firmly to violence, particularly involving minors. The Cabinet is expected to review a broader security package on October 20.