Gerard Wertheimer
Gerard Wertheimer and
Alain Wertheimer own and control
Chanel, founded by his grandfather
Pierre Wertheimer.
The privately held House of
Chanel is jointly owned by the Wertheimer brothers--grandsons of Chanel founder
Pierre Wertheimer. But
Alain Wertheimer runs the company and has presided over the acquisition of several non-Chanel brands, including
Eres lingerie,
Tanner Krolle saddles and leather goods, and
Holland & Holland, a British gunsmith.
Both extremely secretive and enthusiastic equestirans, the brothers are said to reside in both
Switzerland and
France. Chanel's revenues, analysts claim, grow even during downturns.
The brothers Wertheimer own French vineyards like Rauzan-Segla in Margaux and Chateau Canon in Saint-Emilion, both of which have won rave reviews from oenophiles.
*
List of billionaires*
Forbes.com Wertheimer, Alain & Gerard*
Forbes.com: Forbes World's Richest People 2004*
Forbes.com: Forbes World's Richest People 2003*
Times on line*
Horse breeders cup 2003
