Who Founded Victoria's Secret
Victoria's Secret was co-founded by Roy Raymond, a man, and his wife Gaye Raymond in 1977. Roy Raymond created the brand to provide a comfortable shopping environment for men purchasing lingerie as gifts. The first store opened in Stanford Shopping Center, California, and the concept quickly expanded into a national retail chain focused on intimate apparel and fashion. Read the Forbes history of Victoria's Secret
Roy Raymond served as the initial CEO and public face of the company during its early growth years. He later sold the brand to Limited Brands, now known as L Brands, in 1982. The sale allowed the chain to scale rapidly under a larger corporate structure while maintaining its core identity as a lingerie and beauty retailer targeting a broad consumer base.
Current Ownership and Leadership
Victoria's Secret is currently owned by L Brands, a publicly traded company listed on the NYSE under the ticker symbol LB. The company operates as a major player in the global intimate apparel market, with thousands of stores worldwide and a significant online presence. L Brands also manages other beauty and lifestyle brands alongside the Victoria's Secret division.
In recent years, L Brands underwent leadership changes and strategic reviews to adapt to shifting consumer preferences and increased competition. The company has focused on revitalizing the Victoria's Secret brand through product diversification, marketing adjustments, and digital transformation efforts aimed at modernizing the shopping experience for a new generation of customers.
Key Facts About the Founder and the Brand
Roy Raymond, the male co-founder, was motivated by personal discomfort shopping for lingerie for his wife. His vision led to a retail format that emphasized privacy, comfort, and a fantasy-oriented shopping environment. The brand grew into a cultural icon in the United States and internationally, known for its fashion shows and extensive product lines.
Today, the Victoria's Secret brand operates under the corporate umbrella of L Brands, with a focus on lingerie, sleepwear, and personal care products. The company continues to evolve its business model, including store closures, e-commerce growth, and brand repositioning. For more details on L Brands' financials and operations, visit the official SEC filing page.