Galeries Lafayette owner Ginette Moulin passes away at 98

In France, Ginette Moulin, the majority owner of the renowned Galeries Lafayette department stores, passed away on February 11, 2025, at the age of 98. Born as the granddaughter of Théophile Bader, a co-founder of the store in 1894, Moulin played an important role in the family business across several generations. Her leadership saw the company evolve through six different generations of management at its flagship location in Paris, while her family’s net worth was estimated at €4.05 billion, placing them among the wealthiest in France. Throughout her life, Ginette Moulin was recognized not only for her business acumen but also for her philanthropic efforts and support for the arts. The Galeries Lafayette group referred to her as a committed benefactor and champion of culture, underscoring her enduring influence in the world of retail and beyond. Her legacy is intertwined with the history of the department store, which has been synonymous with luxury and elegance in Paris. Despite her family's substantial economic success, Galeries Lafayette faced challenges in recent years, particularly due to a shift towards online shopping exacerbated by COVID-19 restrictions. This change in consumer behavior has impacted foot traffic to physical stores, putting financial pressure on the business model that heavily relies on in-person visits. The company indicated plans to close two stores in Marseille due to consistent losses while also spinning off the Bazar de l'Hôtel de Ville in 2023. These transitions reflect the larger trends impacting the retail sector. Looking ahead, the Galeries Lafayette group expressed hopes of returning to pre-COVID sales levels, while navigating the evolving landscape of retail. Ginette Moulin's passing signifies a notable turning point in the legacy of an iconic brand, which continues to shape the shopping experience in France and serves as a reminder of the influence of generational leadership in family-owned enterprises.