Stefan Persson inherited a leading role in the H&M family business founded by his father and then oversaw decades of international expansion as chief executive and chairman. [1][2]
Second-generation leadership at H&M
H&M was founded by Erling Persson in 1947 and had already expanded beyond its first store, entered multiple European markets and listed on the Stockholm Stock Exchange before Stefan Persson became chief executive. The business platform therefore clearly predated the second generation. [1]
In 1982 Erling Persson stepped aside and Stefan Persson became H&M's second chief executive. H&M's history records major expansion during the following decades, including new European markets, online retail, entry into the United States and the creation or acquisition of additional brands. [1]
Forbes identifies the company founded by his father as the source of Persson's fortune and reports that he owns almost half of H&M. His long operating and governance career demonstrates material expansion and stewardship of a substantial inherited family-business base rather than creation of that base from scratch. [2][1]
H&M's total market value is not Persson's personal wealth. His exposure is tied to the ownership stake attributable to him and his family, making the value of the whole public company distinct from the fraction economically owned by the individual shareholder. [2][1]
Sources for background
Sources reviewed Sep 15, 2026.
- Our history · H&M Group
- Stefan Persson · Forbes · Mar 10, 2026
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