Inscape strengthens creative education portfolio with acquisition of Villioti Fashion Institute

Benchmark International has successfully facilitated the acquisition of Villioti Fashion Institute (Pty) Ltd by Inscape Education Group (Pty) Ltd. The transaction marks an important milestone for both institutions and strengthens Inscape’s position within South Africa’s creative education landscape.

The acquisition reinforces the stability and future growth potential of Villioti Fashion Institute, while creating a platform for expanded academic development, operational strength, industry collaboration and sustained performance. It also aligns with Inscape’s broader commitment to advancing creative education, expanding access to industry-relevant learning, and preparing graduates for meaningful participation in the creative economy.

Inscape Education Group is a South African private higher education institution established in 1981 and registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training. The institution specialises in design, creative arts and innovation education, with learning hubs in cities including Cape Town, Stellenbosch, Midrand, Pretoria, Durban and Umhlanga, as well as distance learning provision.

Inscape offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across disciplines such as graphic design, fashion design, interior design, architecture, digital communication, user experience design, ideation and related creative fields. Its academic approach is rooted in design thinking, applied learning and real-world relevance, with an emphasis on preparing students to become work-ready, challenge-ready and socially aware professionals.

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Commenting on the acquisition, Helen Bührs, CEO of Inscape Education Group (Pty) Ltd, said: “This acquisition is not simply about growth. It is about stewardship, continuity and possibility. Villioti Fashion Institute has built a distinctive reputation in fashion education, and we are honoured to carry that legacy forward as part of the Inscape ecosystem. Together, we have the opportunity to strengthen fashion education in South Africa, support emerging creative talent and create new pathways for students to participate meaningfully in the creative industries.”

Villioti Fashion Institute (Pty) Ltd is a respected South African fashion education institution offering accredited programmes including Higher Certificates, Diplomas, Bachelor’s degrees and Honours-level study in fashion. The institution is known for its industry-focused approach, international benchmarking and emphasis on preparing students for careers in the fashion industry.

The institute has built its reputation through strong creative leadership, industry connections, mentorship, tutoring support and a practical approach to fashion education. Its international affiliations and exposure include links with institutions and networks such as Parsons New York, the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York and the London College of Fashion.

The integration of Villioti Fashion Institute into the Inscape ecosystem will create opportunities to explore shared academic strengths, expanded student support, curriculum innovation, industry partnerships and broader pathways across fashion, design, entrepreneurship, digital communication and creative business.

For current and prospective students, the acquisition signals continuity, stability and future-focused growth. Existing academic commitments will remain a priority, with careful attention given to maintaining programme quality, student experience and institutional identity during the transition.

Lance Hunter, founder of the Villioti Fashion Institute (Pty) Ltd commented: “Villioti Fashion Institute has always been committed to developing creative, confident and industry-ready fashion graduates. We believe that joining the Inscape Education Group creates an exciting opportunity to protect the legacy of the institution while opening new possibilities for students, staff and the broader fashion education community.”

John Loubser, Transaction Director at Benchmark International, stated: “We are proud to have facilitated this transaction between two respected education brands. The acquisition brings together complementary strengths and creates a platform for continued growth in South Africa’s creative education sector. We believe Inscape Education Group is well positioned to support the next chapter of Villioti Fashion Institute’s development while preserving the qualities that have made the institution distinctive.”

About Inscape Education Group
Inscape Education Group is a South African private higher education institution offering qualifications across design, digital communication, architecture, fashion, interiors, marketing, user experience and related creative disciplines. With a focus on design thinking, applied learning and work readiness, Inscape prepares students to contribute meaningfully to the creative economy and society.

About Villioti Fashion Institute
Villioti Fashion Institute is a South African fashion education institution offering accredited fashion-focused qualifications. The institution is known for its industry-focused approach, international benchmarking, mentorship and commitment to preparing students for the fashion and creative industries.