Billionaire Profile
Alain Merieux & family
Global Rank
#491

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Alain Merieux & family

CEO, bioMérieux
FR
Real-Time Net Worth
$7.55B
As of December 2025
Age
87
Source
Pharmaceuticals
Industry
healthcare
Citizenship
FR

Biography

Alain Merieux, born in Lyon, France, in 1938, is a prominent figure in the healthcare industry, renowned for his contributions to in vitro diagnostics and public health. As the chairman of Institut Mérieux, a conglomerate founded by his grandfather, Marcel Mérieux, Alain has spearheaded the development of diagnostic solutions, immunotherapy, and nutrition-based products. He founded bioMérieux, a key subsidiary specializing in diagnostic tests for infectious diseases, contributing significantly to global health. With a net worth of $7.5 billion, Alain Merieux and his family continue to play a vital role in the pharmaceutical sector, impacting patient health and consumer safety worldwide.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Alain Merieux was born in Lyon, France, on July 10, 1938. He is the son of Charles Mérieux and the grandson of Marcel Mérieux, who founded the Institut Mérieux in 1897. The family's legacy is deeply rooted in scientific research and humanitarian efforts, with Marcel Mérieux being a student of Louis Pasteur. Alain followed in his father's and grandfather's footsteps, pursuing a career in the healthcare sector.

Rise to Success

Alain Merieux's career is marked by his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to improving public health. In 1963, he founded bioMérieux, a company specializing in in vitro diagnostics. Under his leadership, bioMérieux has become a global leader in the field, developing diagnostic solutions for various medical and industrial applications. His strategic vision expanded the family's business, contributing to advances in infectious disease diagnosis and beyond. Alain also serves as the chairman of Institut Mérieux, a holding company with significant subsidiaries like bioMérieux and Transgene.

Key Business Strategies

Alain Merieux's business strategies have focused on innovation, strategic partnerships, and global expansion. bioMérieux has consistently invested in research and development to create advanced diagnostic solutions. The company has also expanded its global presence through strategic acquisitions and partnerships, serving over 160 countries. Furthermore, he has expanded the conglomerate’s portfolio, including ventures like BioMerieux, Transgene, and Mérieux NutriSciences. The conglomerate's activities extend beyond diagnostics, with investments in gene therapy, food security, and veterinary public health.

Philanthropy

The Mérieux family is known for its philanthropic efforts, with Alain playing a key role in this tradition. He founded Fondation Marcel-Mérieux and the humanitarian organization Bioforce. The family has established various foundations and organizations that focus on scientific research, humanitarian aid, and education, reflecting their commitment to social responsibility and global health.

Career Milestones

1963

Founded bioMérieux

Established a company specializing in in vitro diagnostics.

1986

First Vice-President of the Rhone-Alpes Region

Served as the first vice-president of the board of the Rhone-Alpes region from 1986 to 1998

2014

Alexandre Mérieux CEO of bioMérieux

Alexandre Merieux, Alain's third son, was named CEO of BioMerieux.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Healthcare and Research

Fondation Marcel-Mérieux

Undisclosed

Founded by Alain Merieux.

Humanitarian Aid

Bioforce

Undisclosed

A humanitarian organization.