Early Life
Axel Oberwelland was born on August 1, 1966, in Bielefeld, Germany. He is the son of Klaus Oberwelland, who took over the family business in 1971, and the grandson of Hugo Oberwelland, who managed the company since 1921. He attended high school in Bielefeld, followed by a boarding school near St. Moritz, Switzerland. He then studied business at the University of St. Gallen, Switzerland, which provided the foundation for his successful career.
Rise to Success
In 2003, Axel Oberwelland took over August Storck KG from his father, Klaus Oberwelland, on the company's 100th anniversary. Under his leadership, the company has continued to flourish, solidifying its position in the confectionery market. Storck has expanded its global presence with distribution in over 100 countries. Key brands like Werther's Original, Toffifee, and Riesen continue to delight consumers worldwide.
Key Business Strategies
Axel Oberwelland has focused on several key strategies to ensure Storck's continued success. These include expanding the company's global footprint, introducing new products, and maintaining the quality and heritage of existing brands. The company's commitment to innovation and expansion has helped to cement its position in the confectionery market. In 2017, Storck's Knoppers nut bar was its most successful new launch. The company has also prioritized family values, which has led to a focus on sustainability and community involvement.
Philanthropy
Axel Oberwelland and his family are known for their philanthropy. In 1992, his father, Klaus Oberwelland, established the Stork Foundation to preserve endangered stork populations in Germany.
