Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons
Erwin Franz Mueller, a German entrepreneur, is the founder of the Müller drugstore chain. Born in 1932, Mueller's career began in hairdressing before he expanded into the retail sector, establishing his first store in 1953. He is known for his hands-on approach, maintaining leadership in the company and making it a major player in the European retail market. His wealth is primarily derived from his drugstore business, and his estimated net worth is $3.2 billion.
Erwin Franz Müller was born on September 8, 1932, in Munich, Germany. Growing up in modest circumstances, he experienced the economic hardships of post-war Germany, instilling in him a strong work ethic and a sense of frugality. He completed an apprenticeship as a hairdresser in 1947 and passed his master's exam in 1957.
In 1953, at the age of 20, Mueller opened his first hairdressing salon in Unterfahlheim, near Ulm. The business expanded, and in 1966, he opened a shop in Ulm-Braunland that included a hairdressing salon, a perfumery, and a drugstore, showcasing his expanding vision. This marked the beginning of his venture into the retail sector. In 1968, Mueller opened the first store with a drugstore and perfume in Munich. He opened his first pure drugstore in 1973. Over time, the business evolved into the Müller drugstore chain, known for its wide array of products, from cosmetics and toiletries to household goods, stationery, and multimedia. He currently has over 900 stores across Europe.
Müller's success is attributed to several key strategies. The company's strategy revolves around a diverse product range, emphasis on high-quality products, a skilled workforce, and competitive pricing. Mueller's hands-on approach to business, including his personal involvement in the day-to-day operations of the company, is a key driver of the company's success, along with the company’s strategy of mostly selling products directly from the German market.
In 2017, Mueller established the Erwin-Mueller-Privatstiftung, a company foundation in Linz, Austria, to manage his succession, however, specific details on the foundation's activities and amounts are unavailable.
Opened a hairdressing salon in Unterfahlheim, Germany.
Opened a shop in Ulm-Braunland with a hairdressing salon, perfumery, and drugstore.
Opened the first "pure" Müller drugstore in Ulm-Böfingen.
Established a foundation to manage his succession.
Took the helm of the company again after the departure of the CEO.
A company foundation established to deal with eventual succession.
Pledged real estate assets as collateral in a tax dispute.
