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Billionaire Profile
Augusto Perfetti
Global Rank
#1301

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Augusto Perfetti

CEO, Perfetti Van Melle
IT
Real-Time Net Worth
$3.1B
As of December 2025
Age
79
Source
Candy
Industry
food-beverage
Citizenship
IT

Biography

Augusto Perfetti, born in 1946, is an Italian billionaire known for co-owning Perfetti Van Melle, one of the world's largest confectionery companies. His wealth stems from the candy and gum industry, with brands like Mentos and Airheads under his company's umbrella. Perfetti, along with his brother Giorgio, transformed the business founded by their father and uncle into a global powerhouse. As of December 5, 2025, his net worth is estimated to be $3.1 Billion. He resides in Lugano, Switzerland and is known for his luxurious lifestyle. Perfetti's career is a testament to his success in the food and beverage industry.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Augusto Perfetti was born in Italy. He is the son of Ambrogio Perfetti, who, along with his brother Egidio, founded the Perfetti candy company. The family's journey into the confectionery world began with a small chewing gum business.

Rise to Success

Augusto, along with his brother Giorgio, took the helm of Perfetti Van Melle. Under their leadership, the company grew significantly, expanding its product lines and global presence. The acquisition of Van Melle in 2001 and Chupa Chups in 2006 were pivotal moments, solidifying Perfetti Van Melle's position as a global leader. The company's revenue in 2022 was over $2.9 billion.

Key Business Strategies

The Perfetti brothers focused on strategic acquisitions and international expansion. They expanded the company's portfolio with popular brands like Mentos, Airheads, and Chupa Chups. They also expanded into more than 150 countries.

Philanthropy

Information regarding specific philanthropic initiatives and amounts are not available.

Career Milestones

1946

Perfetti Founded

Ambrogio Perfetti and Egidio Perfetti founded Perfetti in a small town near Milan.

2001

Acquisition of Van Melle

Perfetti acquired Dutch confectionery manufacturer Van Melle, the creator of Mentos and Fruittella.

2006

Acquisition of Chupa Chups

Perfetti acquired Spanish candy manufacturer Chupa Chups.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Unknown

Unknown

Unknown

Philanthropic information is not available.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

""The Perfetti brothers, who are media-shy, now live in Switzerland and they no longer run the business.""

Leadership Principles

Strategic Acquisitions

The Perfetti brothers have successfully grown their business through strategic acquisitions.

Global Expansion

The company's expansion into over 150 countries has contributed to its global success.

Controversies & Challenges

2013

Superyacht Seizure

In September 2013, Perfetti's superyacht Air was seized for alleged tax evasion in Spain.