Early Life and Career
Lőrinc Mészáros was born on February 24, 1966, in Székesfehérvár, Hungary. He grew up in Felcsút, where he was a childhood friend of Viktor Orbán. His career began in the early 1990s as a gas-fitter. His company, Mészáros & Mészáros, initially focused on residential and building contracts.
Rise to Success
After Orbán's rise to power in 2010, Mészáros's wealth rapidly increased. His company secured significant public procurement contracts, leading to substantial growth. Mészáros served as mayor of Felcsút from 2011 to 2018. In 2017, he acknowledged the importance of his relationship with Orbán, stating that his fortune was due to "God, luck, and Viktor Orbán". His wealth has increased exponentially. By 2013, he was the 88th richest Hungarian, and by December 2024, he was the richest person in Hungary.
Key Business Strategies
Mészáros's business strategy has involved diversification across various sectors, including construction, agriculture, tourism, media, and banking. His companies have been major beneficiaries of public procurement contracts and agricultural subsidies. He has also made strategic investments in media companies, which have increased advertising revenue. A key factor in his expansion has been the support of the Hungarian government.
Philanthropy
Mészáros has also engaged in philanthropy. In 2021, he donated nearly 1.5 billion forints (approximately $4.2 million) to charity.
