Bernard Arnault Rejects Claims LVMH Discriminated Against 'Fat People'
The LVMH chairman responded humorously to a French newspaper's investigation, which also touched on family succession and political influence.
Bernard Arnault, Europe's richest man and chairman of the luxury goods conglomerate LVMH, has pushed back against allegations that his company does not hire overweight individuals. The claims stem from a six-part investigation by the French newspaper Le Monde, which reportedly found that employees at LVMH's Parisian headquarters were predominantly "young, pretty and slim."
In a three-page response posted to LVMH's X account, Arnault offered a humorous apology for a "failure of bodily diversity" and stated he would address the matter with the company canteen. The investigation by Le Monde, partly owned by Arnault's son-in-law Xavier Niel, also explored tensions within the Arnault family regarding succession for the empire, which includes brands such as Dior, Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co., and Bulgari.
LVMH is valued at approximately $142.4 billion, placing Arnault at ninth on the Forbes rich list and making him the wealthiest person in France and Europe. All five of Arnault's children hold leadership positions within the LVMH group. The investigation suggested that these children are being groomed for succession, potentially leading to sibling rivalry.
Arnault, who is 77 years old, thanked the journalists for referring to his family as the "last royal family of France" and for dedicating significant resources to their investigation. He insisted his family is "united" rather than battling intensely for succession, comparing the newspaper's portrayal to an "Italian opera."
The LVMH chairman also disputed accusations concerning his political influence, family dynamics, and business practices, arguing that many are typical within major French corporations. The investigation also claimed that Hermès ties were disallowed in Arnault's office following a past dispute between LVMH and Hermès. Arnault responded that visitors are permitted to keep any Hermès ties they bring, but are offered a more discreet alternative for use within the building as a matter of "manners."