Early Life
Anthony von Mandl was born in Vancouver, British Columbia, to European parents. At the age of nine, his family moved back to Europe, and he later returned to Canada to complete his education. He graduated from the University of British Columbia with a degree in Economics.
Rise to Success
Von Mandl began his career in the Canadian wine business as an importer in the 1970s. In 1972, he founded Mark Anthony Wine Merchants, which later became the Mark Anthony Group. In 1981, he acquired a winery in the Okanagan Valley, renaming it Mission Hill Family Estate. He then created the ready-to-drink alcoholic beverages, Mike's Hard Lemonade and White Claw Hard Seltzer, which revolutionized the beverage landscape.
Key Business Strategies
Von Mandl's business strategies involved creating new categories in the drinks trade and building iconic brands. He focused on innovation, quality, and sustainability, investing in state-of-the-art winemaking techniques. His commitment to excellence led to international recognition and awards for his wines. The creation of Mike's Hard Lemonade and, later, White Claw Hard Seltzer, transformed the alcoholic beverage industry.
Philanthropy
Von Mandl is involved in philanthropy through The von Mandl Family Foundation, supporting the arts, health initiatives, environmental conservation, and cancer research.