RIMOWA is owned by LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton, a French multinational luxury goods conglomerate. Therefore, France is the country that owns RIMOWA.
The German Roots of a Global Luxury Brand
RIMOWA, often stylized as RIMOWA, is a distinguished luxury luggage manufacturer with a rich history. The company was founded in 1898 in Cologne, Germany, establishing its heritage in precision engineering and durable design. Rimowa suitcases are globally recognized for their iconic parallel aluminium grooves, a characteristic feature that has become synonymous with the brand's sophisticated and durable travel gear.
The Shift in Ownership: From Germany to France
While RIMOWA's origins are deeply rooted in Germany, its ownership structure changed significantly in 2016. In a landmark deal, LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton, the world's largest luxury group, acquired an 80% stake in the German luggage maker. This strategic acquisition brought the esteemed German brand under the control of a French parent company.
- Acquisition Date: October 2016
- Acquiring Entity: LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton
- Headquarters of LVMH: Paris, France
- Acquired Stake: 80%
This move integrated RIMOWA into LVMH's vast portfolio of over 75 prestigious brands, which span various luxury sectors including fashion, leather goods, wines, spirits, watches, jewelry, and selective retailing. The acquisition underscored LVMH's commitment to expanding its presence in the high-end travel accessories market.
Key Facts About RIMOWA Ownership
To summarize the essential details of RIMOWA's ownership:
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand Name | RIMOWA |
| Founded In | 1898, Cologne, Germany |
| Original Identity | German luxury luggage manufacturer |
| Current Owner | LVMH Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton (LVMH Website) |
| Owner's Country | France |
| Known For | Parallel aluminium grooves on suitcases |
| Sector | Luxury goods (Travel & Accessories) |
The LVMH Influence
Under LVMH's stewardship, RIMOWA has continued to innovate while maintaining its commitment to quality and craftsmanship. The acquisition allowed RIMOWA to leverage LVMH's global network, marketing expertise, and luxury market insights, further solidifying its position as a leader in premium luggage. This strategic alignment ensures that while RIMOWA's legacy remains German, its corporate ownership and strategic direction are now firmly rooted in France.
