Chanel is one of the most iconic luxury fashion houses in the world. The brand is known for its classic designs, high-end quality, and timeless appeal.
But who does Chanel belong to? Let’s take a closer look.
The Early Days of Chanel
Chanel was founded by Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel in 1909. The brand started as a small millinery shop in Paris, France, where Coco sold hats to wealthy clients. Over time, she expanded her business to include clothing and accessories and became known for her innovative designs that broke away from the traditional styles of the time.
The Wertheimer Brothers
In 1924, Coco Chanel partnered with Pierre Wertheimer, a French businessman who helped finance the growth of her brand. Pierre and his brother Paul helped Chanel expand her operations and introduced new products such as the iconic Chanel No. 5 perfume.
Despite their partnership, tensions arose between Coco and the Wertheimer brothers over control of the company. In 1954, after a long legal battle, Coco agreed to sell her share of the business to Pierre and Paul in exchange for ongoing royalties on all sales.
Current Ownership
Today, Chanel is still owned by the Wertheimer family. Alain Wertheimer and Gerard Wertheimer, grandsons of Pierre Wertheimer, are co-owners of the company.
Chanel has remained a family-owned business since its inception over 100 years ago. This has allowed the brand to maintain its high standards of quality and craftsmanship while also staying true to its heritage.
Conclusion
So there you have it – Chanel is owned by the Wertheimer family. Despite changes in ownership over the years, the brand has remained committed to its original vision of creating timeless designs that stand the test of time. Whether you’re a fan of Chanel’s iconic tweed jackets or their classic handbags, there’s no denying the impact that this luxury fashion house has had on the industry.