In a spectacular twist, Gerard Wertheimer, the heir steering the helm of the iconic Chanel empire, has clinched the coveted title of Switzerland’s wealthiest resident. The surge in luxury goods, fueled by the post-pandemic boom, catapulted his wealth to an impressive 42 billion Swiss francs ($47.6 billion) last year, as reported by Bilanz magazine.
Wertheimer, the steward of the renowned Parisian fashion house celebrated for Chanel No. 5 perfume, proudly calls Geneva home. Propelled by record-breaking success in fashion, perfume, and jewelry sales, his wealth now eclipses even that of the Kamprad family, founders of Ikea—an historic milestone revealed in Bilanz’s annual publication spotlighting the 300 wealthiest individuals in Switzerland.
As of June 27, 2023, Bloomberg estimates Wertheimer’s net worth at $44.8 billion. The closely guarded luxury goods conglomerate, founded by visionary Coco Chanel in 1910, reported a substantial revenue of $17.2 billion in 2022. Beyond the realm of fashion, the Wertheimer portfolio boasts three vineyards and a stable of racehorses in France.
This remarkable ascent places Gerard Wertheimer at the pinnacle of Swiss wealth, a testament to the enduring allure and prosperity of the Chanel legacy.
