Billionaire Profile
Hans Langer
Global Rank
#3284

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Hans Langer

CEO, 3D printing
GERMANY
Real-Time Net Worth
$1.087B
Estimated based on 3D printing stock value as of April 20, 2026
0% (24h)
Age
74
Source
3D printing
Industry
Manufacturing
Citizenship
GERMANY

Biography

Hans Langer is a German billionaire and the world's first 3D printing billionaire. He founded EOS in 1989, a leading company in industrial 3D printing. His career spans over three decades, marked by significant achievements in the manufacturing industry. Langer's net worth is primarily derived from his pioneering work in 3D printing, consistently turning down offers to maintain family control. His vision prioritized industrial applications, which has significantly contributed to his wealth. He currently serves as the Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the EOS Group.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 4/20/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Hans Langer was born in Prague, Czechoslovakia, in 1942. His family, displaced by war, eventually settled in Germany. As a young man, Langer's early experiences shaped his approach to problem-solving, which later proved crucial in his business ventures. He studied physics, which instilled a foundation of logical thinking that guided his business decisions.

Rise to Success

Langer's career began with the founding of EOS GmbH in 1989. He recognized the potential of 3D printing for industrial applications, which became the cornerstone of his company's success. Despite early skepticism, Langer remained committed to this vision. His company's focus on industrial solutions, rather than consumer products, set it apart and led to significant growth.

Key Business Strategies

A key strategy was the development of 3D printing systems for demanding customer requirements and creating sustainable solutions. Langer has turned down multiple, multi-billion-dollar acquisition offers, choosing to keep the business within the family. This decision enabled him to maintain his vision and ensure the company's long-term growth, focusing on high-end solutions and technological advancement.

Philanthropy

While specific philanthropic amounts are difficult to ascertain, Langer's emphasis on sustainability suggests a commitment to responsible manufacturing and ethical business practices. His company’s focus is on supporting a continually growing number of customers from a broad range of industries and fields of application in integrating industrial 3D printing in existing manufacturing environments.

Career Milestones

1985

Joined General Scanning

Langer joined General Scanning and began researching early patents on 3D printing technology.

1989

Founded EOS GmbH

Langer founded EOS, a company focused on industrial 3D printing solutions.

2019

Marie Langer became CEO of EOS GmbH

Langer's daughter took over as CEO of the largest operating business, EOS GmbH.

2020

Awarded Innovators Award

Langer received the Innovators Award from the Additive Manufacturing Users Group.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Sustainability

Focus on Sustainable Solutions

Undisclosed

EOS is focused on developing solutions for and together with customers which create high sustainability effects.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

""I was able to see that we could open up a totally new world of manufacturing.”"

""Most people have not understood the potential. It's not about the printers. It's about the digital impact that starts with the digital-design software.""

Leadership Principles

Vision and Innovation

Langer's emphasis on industrial applications rather than consumer products has been a defining factor in his success.

Long-Term Thinking

Langer has turned down multiple acquisition offers to ensure long-term control and the ability to execute his vision.

Teamwork and Purpose

For Langer, the first question to answer when you start a business is: “Why are we actually doing this?” Only once he has answered this question does he move on to others such as goal achievement, technological development and financing.