LVMH Succession? Arnault’s Wife Says the Family “Almost Never” Talks About It
Hélène Mercier, the wife of LVMH CEO and chairman Bernard Arnault, says the family rarely discusses who will eventually lead the world’s largest luxury group. She shared this in an interview with France’s Libération on Thursday.
Corporate Europe has speculated for years about Arnault’s successor. The 76-year-old is not only France’s richest man but also the head of the multibillion-euro luxury empire. Despite this, Mercier says the topic hardly ever comes up at home.
“We almost never talk about it,” she said. “The decision is completely his.”
LVMH is worth about 312 billion euros ($364 billion) and owns global brands such as Louis Vuitton, Bulgari, Tiffany & Co., and Dom Pérignon. Earlier this year, shareholders approved a rule change that allows Arnault to lead the company until age 85, instead of the previous limit of 80.
Many investors say Arnault’s age is not a concern. What worries them is the lack of a clear succession plan.
All five Arnault children hold senior roles within the company: Delphine (50), Antoine (48), Alexandre (33), Frédéric (30), and Jean (27). Their rising influence keeps French media buzzing about who might take the top job next.
Mercier pushed back against rumors of family tension.
“We’re a blended family, but we’re united. We love each other. There’s no conflict,” she said
