Ginette Moulin, the esteemed owner of the Galeries Lafayette, passed away on February 9, 2025, just two days after celebrating her 98th birthday. The iconic department store group confirmed her death, recognizing Moulin as a pivotal figure not only within the company but also within the fabric of French history.
Born on February 7, 1927, Ginette Moulin was the granddaughter of Théophile Bader, who co-founded the Galeries Lafayette alongside Alphonse Kahn more than 130 years ago. Through her extraordinary life, Moulin witnessed the evolution and expansion of the flagship department store located on Boulevard Haussmann, Paris, encompassing five generations of leadership.
From her early years, Ginette Moulin experienced the trials of her family intertwined with the broader historical narrative of France. Her father, Max Heilbronn, became involved with the Galeries Lafayette during its rise and later founded the Monoprix chain as the country faced economic adversity post-1929. During World War II, the family had to navigate the dangers of anti-Semitic laws imposed by Vichy France. They relocated to Lyon for safety. Tragically, as her father was detained and deported to Buchenwald, Ginette was only 15 years old when he was taken. There, he met Etienne Moulin, who would later marry Ginette.
After the war, Ginette and Etienne Moulin married and had three daughters together, Patricia, Christiane, and Isabelle. Following her husband's death in 2004, Ginette stepped up to lead Galeries Lafayette, becoming president of the holding company Motier – solidifying her influence over the prestigious group. According to Challenges magazine, as of 2024, the Moulin family ranked as the 34th wealthiest family in France, with assets exceeding 4 billion euros.
Under her stewardship beginning from 2005, Ginette Moulin faced challenges and transformations, including the group's strategic financial positioning during tough economic times. Her hands-on approach during crises revealed her commitment and passion for maintaining the family legacy. Facing disputes and tensions within the family branch, she successfully orchestrated the control of the group following the disagreement with her cousin Noëlle Meyer.
The Galeries Lafayette, known for its emphasis on high-end retail, celebrated its 130th anniversary shortly before her death, maintaining 57 locations across France – with 19 wholly owned and 38 run by franchisees. This achievement reflected her lifelong commitment to the expansion and modernization of the brand, including the recent sale of the iconic BHV department store, which exemplifies her decisive leadership.
"I am not ashamed to inherit; I would be ashamed not to transmit," she once passionately stated, emphasizing her deep-seated belief in family legacy. This philosophy not only informed her interactions with her family but also guided her strategies for the organisation, ensuring continuity as the group transitioned leadership to the next generation. Two days prior to her death, she passed the presidency of Motier to her son-in-law, Philippe Houzé. This careful preparation for succession highlights her foresight and dedication to the Galeries Lafayette's future.
Her passing not only marks the end of her extraordinary impact but leaves behind the impending future of the Galeries Lafayette under her descendants. The family reflects Ginette’s influence, with three of her grandchildren – Nicolas, Guillaume, and Arthur – positioned as vice presidents, ensuring the continuity of her vision for the brand.
Beyond her executive roles, Ginette Moulin was renowned for her appreciation of the arts and culture. She closely collaborated with the Lafayette Anticipations Foundation, dedicated to supporting contemporary arts, reflecting her desire to contribute to the cultural fabric of France.
Expressions of condolence and tributes poured forth following her death, echoing the respect she garnered throughout her life. The Galeries Lafayette lauded her as, "a woman of exception, whose unwavering commitment ensured the continuity and modernization of the group. Her legacy is one of inspiration for generations to come.”
The funeral service will be held at the Église Saint-Honoré d’Eylau on February 13, 2025, allowing friends, family, and associates to pay their respects to this iconic figure whose life was deeply woven with the history and evolution of one of France's most treasured institutions. Moulin’s steadfast dedication will undoubtedly resonate within the Galeries Lafayette and the broader community for years to come.