Early Life
Miguel Gellert Krigsner was born on January 9, 1950, in La Paz, Bolivia, to Jewish parents who had fled Nazi persecution. His family moved to Brazil in 1961, settling in Curitiba. Krigsner's parents' experiences during World War II instilled in him a strong sense of resilience and the importance of education.
Rise to Success
Krigsner's entrepreneurial journey began after graduating from the Federal University of Paraná with a degree in Pharmacy and Biochemistry in 1975. In 1977, he founded O Boticário, starting with a small compounding pharmacy. His innovative approach to cosmetics, focusing on natural ingredients, quickly gained popularity. The brand expanded rapidly, establishing itself as a leader in the Brazilian cosmetics market.
Key Business Strategies
Krigsner's success is attributed to several key strategies. He focused on creating high-quality, Brazilian-inspired beauty products, which resonated with consumers. His focus on the company's culture and its people was essential to their success. Word of mouth and excellent service helped expand the brand and has made O Boticário a major employer.
Philanthropy
In 1990, Krigsner founded the Boticário Group Foundation for Nature Protection. This non-profit organization supports conservation efforts and environmental research. The foundation has funded numerous projects, including the acquisition of the Salto Morato Natural Reserve, demonstrating Krigsner's commitment to sustainability and social impact.