Chanel is one of the most iconic luxury fashion brands in the world. The brand has been around for over a century and has become synonymous with style, elegance, and sophistication.
However, many people are curious about who owns Chanel House. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the ownership structure of the company and how it has evolved over time.
The Early Days of Chanel
Chanel was founded by Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel in 1909. At the time, she was just a young woman with a dream to become a fashion designer.
She started by designing hats and eventually expanded into clothing and accessories. Her designs were revolutionary for their time, as she focused on simplicity and comfort rather than the ornate styles popular at the time.
Chanel’s Rise to Fame
As Chanel’s designs gained popularity, she began to attract wealthy clients who appreciated her understated approach to fashion. By the 1920s, Chanel had become one of the most sought-after designers in Europe, and her brand had expanded to include perfumes and cosmetics as well.
Chanel’s Ownership Changes Hands
After Coco Chanel’s death in 1971, ownership of the company passed to her longtime friend and business partner Pierre Wertheimer. Wertheimer had helped fund Chanel’s early ventures in exchange for a share of the profits, so he was already heavily involved in the company before Coco’s death.
Wertheimer’s sons Alain and Gerard later took over ownership of the company from their father. They expanded Chanel’s product lines even further, adding watches and fine jewelry to their offerings.
The Current State of Ownership
Today, Chanel is still owned by members of the Wertheimer family. Alain Wertheimer is currently chairman of Chanel SAS (the parent company that oversees all aspects of the Chanel brand), while his brother Gerard serves as vice chairman. The Wertheimers have continued to uphold Coco Chanel’s vision for the brand, maintaining its reputation for quality and elegance.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Chanel is owned by the Wertheimer family, who have been involved with the company since its early days. While ownership has changed hands over the years, the brand’s commitment to quality and sophistication has remained constant. As Chanel continues to evolve and expand into new markets, it’s clear that the Wertheimer family will continue to play a key role in shaping the future of this iconic fashion house.