Is Chanel Privately Owned?

Chanel is a French fashion house that was founded by Coco Chanel in 1909. The brand is known for its iconic designs, particularly the little black dress and the Chanel suit. It is also known for its signature perfume, Chanel No. 5.

But have you ever wondered who owns Chanel? Is it a publicly traded company or a privately owned business? Let’s take a closer look.

History of Chanel

Coco Chanel started her fashion business in 1909 with the opening of her first boutique in Paris. She quickly gained popularity and became one of the most influential designers of the 20th century. After her death in 1971, the brand continued to grow under the leadership of Karl Lagerfeld.

Ownership of Chanel

Chanel is a privately owned company, which means that it is not publicly traded on any stock exchange. The ownership of the company is split between different individuals and entities.

Wertheimer Family

The Wertheimer family has owned a majority stake in Chanel since 1954. Pierre Wertheimer was an early business partner of Coco Chanel and helped finance her operations in the early days of her business. The family now owns about 90% of the company through their holding company, Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture.

Alain Wertheimer

Alain Wertheimer is one of the current owners and managers of Chanel. He took over as CEO in 1974 and has been instrumental in expanding the brand globally.

Gérard Wertheimer

Gérard Wertheimer is another owner and manager of Chanel. He oversees various aspects of the business, including production and design.

Financials

As a privately owned company, Chanel does not disclose its financial information to the public. However, it is estimated that the company generates over $10 billion in annual revenue, making it one of the largest luxury brands in the world.

Conclusion

In summary, Chanel is a privately owned company that is primarily owned by the Wertheimer family. The brand has a rich history and continues to be one of the most influential names in fashion. While its financials may not be public, there is no denying that Chanel is a highly successful and iconic brand that will continue to inspire and influence fashion trends for years to come.