Billionaire Profile
Holger Loclair
Global Rank
#2107

Image: OPS Netzwerk GmbH | CC BY 2.0 | via Wikimedia Commons

Holger Loclair

CEO, Adhesives
GERMANY
Real-Time Net Worth
$1.926B
Estimated based on Adhesives stock value as of March 6, 2026
0% (24h)
Age
75
Source
Adhesives
Industry
Manufacturing
Citizenship
GERMANY

Biography

Holger Loclair, a German entrepreneur, is the Chairman & CEO of the ORAFOL Group, a leading manufacturer of self-adhesive films and industrial tapes, based in Oranienburg, Germany. Born in 1951, Loclair is the only known billionaire from the former East Germany. His wealth stems from his significant ownership in ORAFOL, which he transformed into a global leader through strategic focus on quality and technology. His career includes a chemistry degree and a doctorate, and he has been instrumental in the company's growth since joining VEB Spezialfarben Oranienburg in 1977 and later leading ORAFOL since 1987.

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

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Holger Loclair was born in Penzin, Mecklenburg, East Germany, on January 24, 1951. As a youth, he showed talent in gymnastics but later pursued academics. He attended the Bergakademie Freiberg, where he studied chemistry, and later earned a doctorate from the Technical University of Szczecin in Poland.

Rise to Success

Loclair's career took off in 1977 when he joined VEB Spezialfarben Oranienburg, eventually becoming its director in 1987. In 1990, the company was renamed ORAFOL Klebetechnik GmbH. Loclair played a pivotal role in the privatization of ORAFOL in 1991 and subsequently acquired a majority stake. Under his leadership, ORAFOL evolved from a state-owned enterprise into the largest family-owned company in East Germany and a global player in the adhesives and films market.

Key Business Strategies

Loclair's strategic vision focused on quality, technology, and global expansion. He invested heavily in research and development, leading to innovative product lines. Loclair expanded ORAFOL's footprint, particularly in the United States, establishing 17 subsidiaries across 30 locations worldwide.

Philanthropy

Specific details about Holger Loclair's philanthropic activities are difficult to ascertain from available sources. However, ORAFOL itself is a significant employer in the Oranienburg area, indicating a commitment to supporting the local economy.

Career Milestones

1977

Joined VEB Spezialfarben Oranienburg

Began working in research and development at VEB Spezialfarben Oranienburg, a state-owned company in East Germany.

1987

Director of VEB Spezialfarben Oranienburg

Became the director of VEB Spezialfarben Oranienburg.

1990

Managing Director of ORAFOL Klebetechnik GmbH

Following the renaming of the company.

1991

Privatization and Acquisition of ORAFOL

Played a key role in the privatization of ORAFOL and acquired a majority stake in the company.

2006

Chairman & CEO of ORAFOL Group Europe

Became Chairman & CEO of the globally active ORAFOL Group.

2020

Inducted into Handelsblatt Hall of Fame

Awarded Family Business status by Handelsblatt.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Economic Development

Supporting local economy

Undisclosed

ORAFOL, under his leadership, is a major employer in the Oranienburg area.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

""The high standards we set for our products are reflected in our production facilities.""

""Engineered for Excellence""

Leadership Principles

Vision and Strategic Focus

Focuses on quality, technology, and global expansion to lead the ORAFOL Group.

Innovation and Development

Invests in research and development to create innovative product lines.

Commitment to Excellence

Strives for premium quality in plastics and polymer chemistry.

Long-term perspective

Ensures continuity in the operational business and the long-term independence of the company.