Billionaire Profile
Axel Oberwelland & family
Global Rank
#3052

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Axel Oberwelland & family

CEO, Candy
GERMANY
Real-Time Net Worth
$1.221B
Estimated based on Candy stock value as of April 21, 2026
0% (24h)
Age
59
Source
Candy
Industry
Food & Beverage
Citizenship
GERMANY

Biography

Axel Oberwelland, born in Bielefeld, Germany, on August 1, 1966, is the owner of August Storck KG, a major confectionery manufacturer. Succeeding his father in 2003, Axel leads the company known for brands like Werther's Original, Riesen, and Toffifee. He is a fourth-generation leader carrying on the family's legacy in the candy industry. The University of St. Gallen graduate has a current estimated net worth of 1.3 Billion USD, making him a prominent figure in the global food and beverage sector.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 4/21/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

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. Axel attended high school in Bielefeld, followed by a boarding school near St. Moritz, Switzerland. He pursued a business degree at the University of St. Gallen, Switzerland.

Rise to Success

Axel Oberwelland's career is rooted in the confectionery industry, specifically with August Storck KG, a company founded by his great-grandfather in 1903. He became the owner of the company in 2003, succeeding his father. Under his leadership, Storck has maintained its reputation for producing high-quality confectionery products, which are beloved globally. The company is known for brands such as Werther's Original, Riesen, and Toffifee.

Key Business Strategies

Axel Oberwelland's strategies have focused on internationalization and worldwide growth. Storck's products are sold in more than 100 countries. The company has continuously invested in its German production facilities, ensuring a technological edge and expanding its product range. Storck has also expanded its sales network, adapting to consumer tastes.

Philanthropy

In 1992, Axel's father, Klaus Oberwelland, established the Stork Foundation to preserve endangered stork populations.

Career Milestones

2003

Owner of August Storck KG

Took over ownership of August Storck KG, a confectionery manufacturer.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Environmental Conservation

Stork Foundation

Undisclosed

Founded by Klaus Oberwelland to preserve endangered stork populations.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Leadership Principles

Performance

Guiding leadership value at Storck.

Passion

Guiding leadership value at Storck.

Sense of belonging

Guiding leadership value at Storck.

Controversies & Challenges

2020

Forest Occupation

Part of the company premises in Halle (Westphalia) was occupied in February 2020 due to the planned clearing of a piece of forest.

2024

Child labor and Deforestation concerns

A petition signed by over 41,000 concerned consumers urged Storck to ensure its chocolate supplies are child labor and deforestation-free.