80-year-old Nicolas Puech, heir to the Hermès fashion empire, is reportedly adopting his 51-year-old gardener as his legal heir. The Swiss news outlet Tribune de Genève disclosed that Puech, a direct descendant of Thierry Hermès and one of Switzerland’s richest individuals, is preparing to hand over a fortune estimated between $10.3 and $11.4 billion, along with $5.9 million in real estate, to his gardener, who hails from a humble Moroccan background.
This unprecedented move has ignited widespread speculation, especially considering Puech’s standing as a fifth-generation member of the renowned luxury fashion house, valued at around $220 billion. The gardener, a married father of two, is set to inherit prime properties in Marrakesh and Montreux.
The decision follows a tumultuous period for Puech, who left Hermès’ board in 2014 amidst a bitter family feud and a hostile takeover attempt by LVMH. His estrangement from the family and their business disputes, particularly concerning LVMH, seem to have influenced his unconventional choice of heir.
However, Puech’s plans are not without legal obstacles. Swiss law poses stringent requirements for adult adoption, including a pre-existing relationship during the adoptee’s minor years. Moreover, Puech had previously pledged his fortune to the Isocrates foundation, aimed at combating misinformation. Withdrawing this commitment could lead to a significant legal confrontation, reminiscent of past family conflicts.
The foundation has already expressed opposition to any changes in the inheritance contract. Some speculate that the adoption might be a strategic move to prevent the foundation from intervening in Puech’s will.