Franco Sarto

Franco Sarto is a well-regarded brand in the women's footwear industry, celebrated for its Italian-inspired designs that balance style and comfort at accessible prices. Established in 1990 by Italian designer Franco Sarto, the brand quickly made a name for itself in the American market by offering modern, wearable fashion. Over the years, Franco Sarto has established itself as a favorite in department stores and online platforms, with its shoes prominently available at retailers like Nordstrom, DSW, Macy’s, and Zappos.

A pivotal moment in the brand's journey was its acquisition by the Brown Shoe Company, now known as Caleres, Inc. This acquisition significantly bolstered Franco Sarto's distribution capabilities and brand visibility across North America and beyond. As of November 2025, Franco Sarto does not operate its own standalone stores. Instead, it has built a strong presence through its direct-to-consumer website and a wide-reaching wholesale network, ensuring its products are available in numerous third-party retail locations throughout the United States and Canada.

The brand operates from Caleres' headquarters in St. Louis, Missouri, where its design, marketing, and business operations are managed. In recent years, Franco Sarto has focused on enhancing its digital presence and strengthening its relationships with key retail partners, rather than pursuing physical store expansion. For commercial real estate professionals, Franco Sarto's significance is underscored by its status as a nationally recognized brand within the Caleres portfolio, its steady demand in prominent retail settings, and its contribution as a popular choice in women's footwear departments.