Persson Family Increases H&M Stake to Over 68 Percent

The founders of H&M, the Persson family, increased their ownership stake in the fast-fashion retailer to over 68 percent as of August 2026. Regulatory filings reveal the family purchased 36.8 million shares this year through their holding company, Ramsbury Invest.

The increased stake comes as H&M struggles with stagnant sales and a share price that has dropped more than 50 percent since 2015. CEO Daniel Erver, who took over in January 2024, has yet to significantly boost the company's valuation or sales performance while facing intense competition from Shein and Inditex.

These developments have led to speculation that the family may eventually take the company private, with some analysts predicting a potential buyout by 2030. A spokesperson for Ramsbury Invest declined to comment on privatization plans, stating that the family are long-term owners who believe in the company.