Dieter Schwarz, the founder of Lidl and Kaufland, has been named the richest person in Germany with a fortune of 43.7 billion euros. He has overtaken the BMW major shareholders Susanne Klatten and Stefan Quandt, who now hold the second position. The Merck family, majority owners of the pharmaceutical and chemical conglomerate, ranks third with 33.8 billion euros.
The combined wealth of Germany's top 500 richest individuals has increased by 53 billion euros, bringing the total to 1.1 trillion euros. This growth coincides with a 28% rise in the DAX 40 index. A new record has been set with 249 billionaires, the highest number since the list's inception in 2001.
The valuations are conservative, based on closing equity prices for listed companies and on sales, profitability, and market position for unlisted firms. Notable families such as the Albrechts and Heisters of Aldi have significant assets in foundations. Rising food prices and inflation have contributed to the increase in Schwarz's wealth.
Other prominent families in the top ten include the Reimanns, Kühnes, and Porsches. The Albrecht family of Aldi Süd and Theo Albrecht Jr. of Aldi Nord and Trader Joe's also feature prominently. The Reichenliste highlights the robust and growing financial landscape of Germany's wealthiest individuals.
