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Billionaire Profile
Emanuele (Lino) Saputo & family
Global Rank
#649

Image: Unsplash Contributor | Unsplash License | via Unsplash

Emanuele (Lino) Saputo & family

CEO, Cheese
CANADA
Real-Time Net Worth
$6.267B
Estimated based on Cheese stock value as of March 6, 2026
+0.07% (24h)
Age
89
Source
Cheese
Industry
Food & Beverage
Citizenship
CANADA

Biography

Emanuele "Lino" Saputo, an Italian-Canadian billionaire, is the founder of Saputo Inc., one of the largest dairy processors globally. Born in Sicily, Italy, in 1937, Saputo immigrated to Canada at the age of 15 and transformed his family's cheese-making business into a multinational corporation. As of February 2, 2026, the Saputo family's net worth is estimated to be $6.1 billion. Saputo's career has been marked by significant achievements in the dairy industry, expanding Saputo Inc. to operations in multiple countries. He is also known for his philanthropic endeavors, supporting various charitable organizations.

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

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Emanuele "Lino" Saputo was born in Montelepre, Sicily, Italy, in 1937. His father, Giuseppe Saputo, was a cheesemaker. Lino immigrated to Montreal, Canada, in 1952, joining his father and brother. The family started their business in 1954 with a modest investment and a bicycle for deliveries.

Rise to Success

Lino Saputo became chairman and president of Saputo Inc. in 1969 and was named chairman and CEO when the company went public in 1997. Under his leadership, Saputo Inc. expanded significantly, acquiring several competitors and expanding its product offerings, selling in over 40 countries. He stepped down as chairman in August 2017, succeeded by his son, Lino Jr..

Key Business Strategies

Saputo's business strategy involved expanding through acquisitions, innovative practices, and a commitment to quality. He took the company public in 1997, which fueled further growth. Saputo Inc. has operations in Canada, the United States, Europe, Australia, and Argentina.

Philanthropy

Lino Saputo and his wife Mirella established a charitable foundation in 1979, supporting initiatives for sick and disabled children, women, and seniors. The Saputo family also supports soccer in Quebec.

Career Milestones

1954

Founded Saputo Inc.

Founded the cheese-making business with his father, Giuseppe Saputo.

1969

Chairman and President of Saputo Inc.

Succeeded his father as chairman and president, leading the company through a period of growth.

1997

Saputo Inc. goes public

Took Saputo Inc. public, which enabled it to access greater resources and accelerate its growth trajectory.

2017

Retired as Chairman

His son, Lino Jr., succeeded him as chairman.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Healthcare and Community Development

The Mirella and Lino Saputo Foundation

Undisclosed

Supports children, seniors, and vulnerable members of society. Supports a professional soccer stadium in Montreal.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Leadership Principles

Integrity

Upholding strong moral principles in business practices.

Perseverance

Demonstrating persistence and determination in the face of challenges.

Dedication to Excellence

Striving for the highest standards in all aspects of the business.

Controversies & Challenges

2020

Allegations of Mafia Ties

Allegations of ties to Mafia figures in the US and Canada. Saputo has denied these allegations.

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