Leslie Wexner, founder of L Brands, is one of the most influential figures in American retail, having built Victoria’s Secret, Bath & Body Works, and a portfolio of iconic mall brands that helped define modern specialty retail. Starting with a single apparel store in 1963, Wexner created a multi-billion-dollar empire through sharp merchandising instincts, aggressive expansion, and a deep understanding of consumer psychology. For decades, he set the pace in fashion and retail strategy, while also becoming a major philanthropist supporting education, healthcare, and the arts. Though he has stepped back from the company, Wexner remains a towering figure in the retail industry’s evolution.

Jay Schottenstein, chairman and CEO of American Eagle Outfitters and head of the Schottenstein family’s retail empire, has spent decades shaping some of America’s most recognizable consumer brands. Under his leadership, American Eagle evolved into a multibillion-dollar global apparel company, driven by strong lifestyle positioning and the runaway success of Aerie. Beyond fashion, Schottenstein oversees a vast portfolio that spans furniture retail, real estate, and private investments, including leadership roles within Schottenstein Stores Corporation. Known for his disciplined operational approach and long-term family stewardship, he remains one of the most influential figures in the U.S. retail sector.

Hank Meijer, co-chairman of Meijer Inc., oversees one of America’s largest privately held supermarket chains, founded by his grandfather in 1934. Under his leadership, the Michigan-based retailer has expanded across the Midwest with hundreds of supercenters blending groceries, general merchandise, and pharmacies. Known for pioneering the “supercenter” model long before it became industry standard, Meijer has maintained the company’s family-owned ethos while scaling into a multibillion-dollar enterprise. Beyond retail, Hank Meijer is also recognized as an author, historian, and philanthropist, contributing to education, civic causes, and cultural initiatives.

Daniel J. Hirschfeld is an American billionaire and long-time chairman of The Buckle, Inc., the Nebraska-based retailer founded by his family. Owning roughly one-third of the company, he oversees a chain of over 440 apparel stores across 42 U.S. states and has transformed it into a durable casusal-fashion leader. His family legacy dates back to one of the original roots of denim retail.