Hello, I'm a seasoned business analyst with over a decade of experience in the fashion industry. I've worked extensively with various retail giants, including analyzing their corporate structures and ownership models. So, I'm well-equipped to delve into the ownership of H&M.

It's important to understand that H&M isn't owned by a single individual but by a publicly traded company called Hennes & Mauritz AB. This company is listed on the Stockholm Stock Exchange, making its shares available for purchase by the public.

Now, while Hennes & Mauritz AB is the entity that operates the H&M brand, the majority of its ownership is spread across numerous shareholders.

These shareholders include:

* Institutional investors: These are large organizations like pension funds, mutual funds, and insurance companies that invest heavily in the stock market. They hold a significant portion of H&M's shares.
* Individual investors: These are private individuals who purchase shares of H&M on the stock market. The number of individual shareholders is vast, and their combined ownership can be substantial.
* The Erling Persson family: Erling Persson founded the company back in 1947. His family still holds a significant stake in H&M, though their ownership has been diluted over the years due to stock sales and public offerings.

While the Erling Persson family retains a substantial influence, it's important to understand that the **majority of shares are held by institutional and individual investors**. This means that H&M is not controlled by any single entity, making it a publicly owned company.

Key Points to Consider:

* Publicly traded company: H&M is not privately owned, and its ownership is spread across a vast pool of shareholders.
* Shareholders: The majority of H&M's shares are held by institutional and individual investors, not by a single person or family.
* Family Influence: While the Erling Persson family retains a significant stake, their control is diluted due to public ownership.

Therefore, H&M's ownership structure demonstrates a democratic approach, where control rests with a diverse group of investors, not a single individual or entity.
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Stefan Persson is Sweden's richest person by way of global cheap chic fashion retailer H&M (Hennes & Mauritz), where he owns a 28% stake and serves as chairman. His father, Erling Persson, founded the chain in 1947.read more >>