Top 10 Richest People & Families in Germany 2025 – Fascinating Facts: German Billionaires
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In 2025, Germany's billionaires are thriving, with fortunes tied to sectors such as retail, automotive, logistics, and pharmaceuticals. The total number of billionaires has increased to 132, as Germany remains a critical player in the global wealth landscape.
Germany's Economic Landscape in 2025• GDP (2025): Estimated at $4.8 trillion USD • Number of billionaires: 132 • Number of millionaires: Approximately 2.6 million • Key industries: Automotive, retail, logistics, pharmaceuticals, technology |
The Top 10 Richest People in Germany 2025
1. Dieter Schwarz
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Dieter Schwarz is the owner of the Schwarz Gruppe, which owns both the supermarket chains Kaufland and Lidl |
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Net worth: $47.5 billion USD
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Source of wealth: Founder of Lidl and Kaufland
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Industry: Retail
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Location: Neckarsulm
Overview: Dieter Schwarz is Germany's wealthiest individual and the force behind Schwarz Group, the parent company of Lidl and Kaufland, two of Europe's leading retail chains. His empire spans over 30 countries.
Interesting Fact: Despite being Germany's richest person, Schwarz lives an extremely private life and avoids all media exposure. His philanthropic foundation quietly supports education and scientific research, but few details are ever made public.
2. Susanne Klatten & Stefan Quandt
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Susanne Klatten & Stefan Quandt |
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Net worth: $37.4 billion USD (combined)
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Source of wealth: Major shareholders of BMW
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Industry: Automotive
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Location: Bad Homburg
Overview: The heirs to the BMW fortune, Susanne Klatten and her brother Stefan Quandt, are among Germany's most influential industrialists. They control nearly half of BMW, one of the world's most prestigious automakers.
Interesting Fact: While many billionaires diversify away from their core assets, the Quandt siblings remain deeply involved in BMW's strategic decisions. Susanne is also active in Altana, a chemical company, and supports numerous cultural institutions.
3. Family Merck
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Net worth: $36.8 billion USD
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Source of wealth: Majority owners of Merck Group
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Industry: Pharmaceuticals & Chemicals
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Location: Darmstadt
Overview: The Merck family owns the majority of Merck Group, one of the world's oldest and most innovative pharmaceutical and chemical companies, operating in over 70 countries.
Interesting Fact: The Merck family business dates back to 1668, making it one of the oldest family-controlled companies globally. The family still privately holds around 70% of the business, ensuring its legacy endures across generations.
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4. Family Reimann
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Net worth: $34.0 billion USD
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Source of wealth: JAB Holding Company
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Industry: Consumer Goods & Beverages
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Location: Luxembourg
Overview: Through JAB Holding, the Reimann family has built a global empire in the food and beverage industry, controlling major brands like Krispy Kreme, Pret A Manger, and Dr. Pepper Snapple Group.
Interesting Fact: Although based in Germany, much of the Reimann fortune is tied to global coffee, cosmetics, and food brands. The family maintains a low profile but has made headlines for its aggressive acquisitions in the U.S. and Europe.
5. Klaus-Michael Kühne
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Klaus Michael Kuehne and wife |
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Net worth: $31.5 billion USD
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Source of wealth: Kühne + Nagel, Lufthansa, logistics
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Industry: Logistics & Transportation
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Location: Hamburg
Overview: Kühne is Germany's logistics kingpin, with major holdings in Kühne + Nagel, one of the world's largest freight and logistics companies, and a significant stake in Lufthansa.
Interesting Fact: Beyond his business empire, Kühne is deeply involved in sports, including owning a controlling interest in Hamburger SV football club. His philanthropic efforts focus on medical research and infrastructure projects in Germany.
Read more: Who is Klaus Michael Kuehne - Richest Person in Germany: Biography, Personal Life And Net Worth
6. Families Albrecht and Heister
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Net worth: $29.5 billion USD
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Source of wealth: Aldi Süd
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Industry: Retail
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Location: Mülheim an der Ruhr
Overview: The heirs of Aldi Süd, one of Germany's largest discount supermarket chains, continue to expand their retail empire across Europe, the U.S., and Australia.
Interesting Fact: Despite their wealth, the Albrecht and Heister families are known for their frugality. Some family members still shop at Aldi stores regularly, staying true to the brand's discount ethos.
7. Family Henkel
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Net worth: $26.8 billion USD
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Source of wealth: Henkel AG & Co. KGaA
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Industry: Consumer Goods
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Location: Düsseldorf
Overview: Henkel is a global leader in adhesives, beauty care, and laundry products. The Henkel family has held significant control since the company’s founding in 1876.
Interesting Fact: The Henkel family has created a unique blend of business and sustainability, leading Henkel AG to be one of the most environmentally conscious consumer goods companies in Europe.
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8. Family Porsche
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Net worth: $21.0 billion USD
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Source of wealth: Porsche Automobil Holding SE
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Industry: Automotive
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Location: Stuttgart
Overview: The Porsche family controls the luxury carmaker Porsche AG and holds a significant stake in the Volkswagen Group, one of the world's largest car manufacturers.
Interesting Fact: The Porsche family's legacy is not limited to cars. They have a history of supporting automotive innovation, including ventures into electric vehicle technology and motorsports.
9. Families Theo Albrecht Jr. and Babette Albrecht
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Net worth: $20.5 billion USD
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Source of wealth: Aldi Nord
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Industry: Retail
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Location: Essen
Overview: As heirs to Aldi Nord, these families have expanded the company across Northern Europe and the U.S., cementing Aldi as one of the most recognizable retail brands worldwide.
Interesting Fact: The Aldi Nord empire continues to invest heavily in eco-friendly stores and logistics centers, making it one of the most sustainable grocery retailers in Europe.
10. Reinhold Würth & Family
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Reinhold Würth & Family |
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Net worth: $17.8 billion USD
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Source of wealth: Würth Group
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Industry: Manufacturing & Industrial Supplies
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Location: Künzelsau
Overview: Reinhold Würth transformed his father's small wholesale screw business into the Würth Group, a global leader in industrial supplies and fasteners.
Interesting Fact: An avid art collector, Würth has amassed a collection of over 18,000 pieces and operates several museums across Germany, blending industry success with cultural philanthropy.
FAQs
1. Who is the richest person in Germany in 2025?
Dieter Schwarz is the richest person in Germany with a net worth of $47.5 billion USD.
2. Which industries produce the most billionaires in Germany?
The retail and automotive sectors dominate, with significant contributions from logistics, pharmaceuticals, and consumer goods.
3. How many billionaires are there in Germany in 2025?
There are 132 billionaires in Germany as of 2025.
4. How does Germany compare to other countries in terms of billionaires?
Germany ranks fourth globally, following the U.S., China, and India.
5. Are Germany's billionaires investing in sustainable industries?
Yes, many, including the Aldi and Henkel families, are increasingly focused on sustainable retail and production practices.
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