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Billionaire Profile
C
Global Rank
#2173

Image: Benjamin Arrenberg | Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Christoffel Wiese

CEO, Retail
SOUTH AFRICA
Real-Time Net Worth
$1.852B
Estimated based on Retail stock value as of March 6, 2026
+0.35% (24h)
Age
84
Source
Retail
Industry
Fashion & Retail
Citizenship
SOUTH AFRICA

Biography

Christoffel (Christo) Wiese is a prominent South African billionaire businessman. Born in 1941, Wiese is primarily known for building a retail empire, particularly through his leadership at Shoprite. His career began with law and later saw him transform Shoprite from a small chain into a multinational retail giant, significantly contributing to job creation and retail innovation in South Africa. Despite facing financial setbacks, Wiese has demonstrated resilience and continues to be a key figure in the South African business landscape, with an estimated net worth of $1.3 - $1.8 billion.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 3/6/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Christoffel Hendrik Wiese was born on September 10, 1941, in Upington, South Africa. His early life was rooted in business, with his parents founding Pepkor, a discount clothing chain that would later become a significant part of his career.

Rise to Success

After practicing law for a brief period, Wiese joined Pepkor as a director. His career took off with the transformation of Shoprite from a modest eight-store chain to a multinational retail empire. Wiese spearheaded Shoprite's growth through strategic acquisitions and expansion. He also embraced franchising and acquired OK Bazaars, creating numerous job opportunities and boosting the local economy. His strategic acumen earned him widespread recognition, including the Business Leader of the Year award and the Pioneer of the 20th Century Award.

Key Business Strategies

Wiese's success stems from offering low prices, which created brand loyalty. He expanded Shoprite across Africa and beyond through strategic acquisitions and franchising. Wiese is also known for making strategic investments and divestments, as seen in his sale of an 80% stake in Virgin Active to Brait.

Philanthropy

While specific amounts are unavailable, Wiese is known to contribute to conservation efforts on his game farm in the Kalahari desert.

Career Milestones

1981

Acquired Controlling Interest in Pep Stores

Wiese acquired a controlling interest in Pep Stores, marking a pivotal moment in his retail career.

1980s-1990s

Shoprite Expansion

Led the expansion of Shoprite from a small chain of stores into a major retail company.

2015

Sold Pepkor to Steinhoff International

Sold Pepkor to Steinhoff in a deal that initially boosted his wealth, before subsequent events impacted his fortune.

2017

Steinhoff Scandal

Stepped down as chairman of Steinhoff International after the company disclosed accounting irregularities.

2022

Regained Billionaire Status

Regained his billionaire status after settling a dispute with Steinhoff.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Conservation

Conservation Efforts

Undisclosed

Supports conservation efforts on his game farm in the Kalahari desert.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

""Low prices you can trust. Just very, very low everyday prices.""

Leadership Principles

Focus on Value

Offering quality products at low prices to build brand loyalty.

Strategic Expansion

Growing the business through acquisitions and franchising.

Adaptability

Demonstrating resilience and the ability to recover from setbacks, as seen after the Steinhoff scandal.

Controversies & Challenges

2017

Steinhoff Scandal

Involved in the Steinhoff International accounting scandal where he was a chairman, resulting in a significant loss of wealth. Sued Steinhoff and settled the matter in 2022.

2009

Confiscated Funds

Involved in an international incident where funds were confiscated while boarding a flight from England to Luxembourg. The funds were later reclaimed.

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