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Emanuele (Lino) Saputo & family
Global Rank
#732

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Emanuele (Lino) Saputo & family

CEO, Cheese
CANADA
Real-Time Net Worth
$5.776B
Estimated based on Cheese stock value as of April 21, 2026
+0.44% (24h)
Age
88
Source
Cheese
Industry
Food & Beverage
Citizenship
CANADA

Biography

Emanuele (Lino) Saputo, born in 1937, is an Italian-Canadian businessman renowned for founding Saputo Inc., a global dairy giant. His family immigrated to Canada in the early 1950s, where he built upon his father's cheesemaking expertise to establish a company that now ranks among the top ten dairy processors worldwide. Lino Saputo served as chairman of the board and president from 1969 and then as chairman and CEO in 1997 when the company went public. With a focus on quality and innovation, Saputo expanded the business through strategic acquisitions, transforming it into a major player in the food and beverage industry. His net worth is estimated at $6.3 billion as of 2024, reflecting his significant achievements.

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

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Emanuele (Lino) Saputo was born in Montelepre, Sicily, Italy, in 1937, to Giuseppe Saputo, a master cheesemaker, and his wife Maria. In 1950, Giuseppe and his eldest son, Frank, immigrated to Montreal, Canada, seeking better opportunities. Two years later, Lino, along with his mother, siblings, and other family members, joined them in Canada.

Rise to Success

In 1954, Lino, along with his father and family, founded Saputo Inc. with just $500 for equipment and a bicycle for deliveries. They started by producing fresh Italian-style cheeses for Montreal's Italian community. Lino took over as chairman of the board and president of Saputo Inc. in 1969, and in 1997, when the company went public, he was named chairman and chief executive officer (CEO). Under his leadership, Saputo expanded significantly through acquisitions, becoming a leading dairy processor.

Key Business Strategies

Saputo's success is largely attributed to its strategic focus on acquisitions and innovation. The company expanded its product offerings and geographic reach through numerous acquisitions, including Stella Foods in the US and Dairy Crest in the UK.

Philanthropy

Lino and his wife Mirella co-founded a charitable foundation in 1979. The Saputo family has supported numerous causes related to health, culture, and sports. The Mirella & Lino Saputo Foundation supports several causes, including hospitals, health, and education.

Career Milestones

1954

Founded Saputo Inc.

Lino Saputo, along with his family, established Saputo Inc., a cheese-making company in Montreal, Canada.

1969

Chairman of the Board and President

Saputo became chairman of the board and president of Saputo Inc..

1997

CEO and Chairman of the Board

Saputo became Chairman and CEO when the company went public.

2004

Transitioned Leadership

Lino Saputo Jr. was appointed to the position of president and CEO, while Lino Saputo remained chairman.

2017

Retired as Chairman

Lino Saputo Jr. assumed the role of chairman, and Saputo remained the majority shareholder of Saputo Inc..

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Education and Health

Mirella & Lino Saputo Foundation

$XB

Supports hospitals, health, and education.

Sports

Montreal Impact Soccer Stadium

$7.5M

Donation for constructing a soccer stadium at the Olympic Park in 2006.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

""Our family takes pride in supporting this transformative social project," says Mirella Saputo, president of Mirella & Lino Saputo Foundation."

"Lino Saputo is well known for his innovative spirit and commitment to excellence."

Leadership Principles

Family Values

Saputo has grown significantly by putting forward its strong heritage and family values.

Commitment to Excellence

Lino Saputo is known for his commitment to excellence.

Strategic Acquisitions

Saputo has a successful track record with numerous acquisitions to expand operations.

Controversies & Challenges

2008

Defamation Lawsuits

Saputo Inc. launched three defamation lawsuits against Canadian newspapers over stories alluding to Lino Saputo being linked to organized crime.

2014

Animal Cruelty Allegations

Media covered Saputo Inc. for alleged cruelty towards animals.

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