Image: Frankie Fouganthin | CC BY-SA 4.0 | via Wikimedia Commons
Igor Yakovlev is a Russian billionaire, known for founding the Eldorado electronics retail chain in the 1990s. After selling his stake in Eldorado, Yakovlev founded the shoe and accessories retailer Kari in 2012, which has expanded to over 1,200 stores. As of February 2026, his estimated net worth is $1.4 billion, demonstrating his continued success in the retail industry.
Born in 1965, Igor Yakovlev embarked on an entrepreneurial journey that would establish him as a prominent figure in the Russian retail landscape. His early career laid the foundation for his later success in the consumer electronics and retail sectors.
Yakovlev's career began with the founding of Eldorado, a consumer electronics retail chain in the 1990s. Under his leadership, Eldorado quickly grew to become a dominant player in the Russian market. In 2012, Yakovlev founded Kari, a retailer specializing in shoes and accessories. Kari rapidly expanded across Russia, Belarus, and Kazakhstan.
Yakovlev's business strategies have been characterized by identifying market gaps, and building low-cost airline, Kari, to franchise-based model.
Information regarding Igor Yakovlev's philanthropic efforts is not readily available.
Co-founded Eldorado, a home appliance and electronics retailer, with his brother Oleg.
Founded Kari, a Russian retailer of shoes, accessories, and household products.
Bought a 50% stake in FC Anzhi Makhachkala, a professional soccer club in Russia.
Philanthropic information unavailable.
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Leadership principles are not available
Sold his stake in Eldorado due to debt issues.
