Billionaire Profile
Friedhelm Loh
Global Rank
#192

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Friedhelm Loh

CEO, Rittal
DE
Real-Time Net Worth
$13.9B
As of December 2025
Age
79
Source
Manufacturing
Industry
manufacturing
Citizenship
DE

Biography

Friedhelm Loh is a prominent German billionaire industrialist, known for transforming a family business into a global manufacturing powerhouse. Born on August 16, 1946, he is the owner and chairman of the Friedhelm Loh Group. His wealth stems from the company's success in manufacturing and IT infrastructure. Under his leadership, the Group expanded its operations to over 90 countries and now has over 12,000 employees. Loh is also recognized for his significant contributions to philanthropy, particularly in the areas of education and social welfare. As of December 2024, his net worth is estimated at $13.9 billion.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Friedhelm Loh was born on August 16, 1946, in Haiger, Germany. He is the son of Rudolf Loh, who founded the company in 1961. Friedhelm Loh grew up in a family of founders and witnessed the growth of the business from a small operation into a global enterprise. He received an education in business administration.

Rise to Success

Friedhelm Loh took over the family business, Rittal, in 1974. Under his leadership, Rittal transformed from a producer of electrical enclosures into a global leader in industrial solutions. He expanded the company's product offerings to include climate control systems, power distribution solutions, and IT infrastructure. Loh embraced globalization, establishing a presence in more than 90 countries. The Friedhelm Loh Group now includes subsidiaries such as Eplan and Cideon, which specialize in industrial software and automation solutions.

Key Business Strategies

Loh's success is attributed to his foresight and strategic approach. Key business strategies include continuous innovation, customer satisfaction, and a commitment to high-quality standards. His companies have embraced cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and smart manufacturing. He has also focused on employee development, creating numerous apprenticeships and internships. The company's expansion into global markets and its ability to provide end-to-end solutions have been pivotal to its success.

Philanthropy

Beyond his business achievements, Friedhelm Loh is widely respected for his philanthropic work. He has donated millions to various causes, including humanitarian aid, educational initiatives, and religious institutions. His foundation, the Friedhelm Loh Stiftung, supports projects in education, youth support, and Christian values. The Friedhelm Loh Group's traditional annual donation campaign, with the Rittal Foundation, has raised significant amounts for charitable organizations.

Career Milestones

1974

Took over Rittal

Friedhelm Loh took over Rittal and began expanding its product offerings.

1989

Friedhelm Loh Group

The Friedhelm Loh Group was established, encompassing several companies.

2011

Rittal Foundation

Established the Rittal Foundation to support charitable projects.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Education and Social Welfare

Rittal Foundation

$6.8M

Supports educational, social, and scientific projects.

Various

Annual Donations

$2M

Annual donations to charitable organizations.

Humanitarian Aid

Debora Foundation India

Unknown

Supports the Dalit caste.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"Stagnation means regression."

Leadership Principles

Innovation

Continuous development of new products and technologies.

Customer Satisfaction

Focusing on customer needs and providing high-quality solutions.

Social Responsibility

Commitment to ethical business practices and community support.