Leslie Wexner

Leslie Herbert Wexner is an American businessman and philanthropist best known as the founder of The Limited and the principal founder of L Brands, the retail company that became Bath & Body Works, Inc.

Leslie Herbert Wexner is an American businessman and philanthropist best known as the founder of The Limited and the principal founder of L Brands, the retail company that became Bath & Body Works, Inc. He built a major specialty retail portfolio that included Victoria’s Secret, Bath & Body Works, Abercrombie & Fitch, and La Senza. Wexner’s retail empire included La Senza, a Canadian lingerie retailer, linking him directly to the Canadian retail market.

Early life and education

Wexner was born in Dayton, Ohio, in 1937 and grew up in a family involved in clothing retail. He attended The Ohio State University before entering the family business and later founding his own company.

Retail career

In 1963, Wexner opened the first Limited store in Columbus, focusing on women’s apparel. The business expanded rapidly and later acquired brands such as Lane Bryant and Victoria’s Secret.

L Brands and later roles

Wexner became the founder and long-time leader of L Brands, which later changed its corporate name to Bath & Body Works, Inc. after spinning off Victoria’s Secret.

Philanthropy

Wexner and his wife established the Wexner Foundation in 1984 to support Jewish leadership and related programs. He has also supported institutions in central Ohio, including Ohio State University and the Wexner Center for the Arts.