Chanel is one of the world's most iconic luxury fashion and beauty brands, established by Gabrielle 'Coco' Chanel in 1910. The brand began as a millinery shop in Paris and expanded into haute couture and fragrance, most notably with the launch of Chanel No. 5 in 1921. Today, the brand remains a symbol of timeless elegance and high-end craftsmanship.

The majority of Chanel's manufacturing takes place in France, particularly for its haute couture, ready-to-wear collections, and its world-renowned fragrance and beauty lines. Certain specialized items, such as leather goods or specific components, may be crafted in Italy or other European regions known for high-quality manufacturing, but France remains the primary hub for the brand's production.

Chanel is a privately held company, which is a rarity among major luxury brands. It has been owned by the Wertheimer family since its early years, following the partnership between Coco Chanel and Pierre Wertheimer. Currently, the brand is owned by Alain and Gérard Wertheimer, and the company is headquartered in London, United Kingdom, though its creative and historical heart remains in Paris.