Billionaire Profile
W
Global Rank
#2102

Image: Rosário, António do, 1647-1704 | Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Wenaas Lars

CEO, Hotels
NORWAY
Real-Time Net Worth
$1.922B
Estimated based on Hotels stock value as of March 6, 2026
0% (24h)
Age
74
Source
hotels
Industry
Service
Citizenship
NORWAY

Biography

Lars Wenaas, born in 1951, is a 74-year-old Norwegian billionaire known for his success in the hotel industry. His primary source of wealth stems from his ownership of Wenaasgruppen, a hotel property empire. Lars began his career in the family's workwear business before transitioning into hotel real estate investments in the 1990s. His career is marked by the acquisition and development of numerous hotels across Europe, including notable properties like the Radisson Blu Plaza in Oslo. With a current net worth of $1.9 billion, Wenaas is a prominent figure in the global business landscape.

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

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Lars Wenaas was born on April 19, 1951, in Norway. The Wenaas family business started in 1931 when Lars' grandfather opened a clothing store in Mandalen, with production in the basement of his home. In the 1970s, Lars and his brother Nils joined the family business, which then focused on work clothes production.

Rise to Success

Lars shifted the family's focus to hotel real estate investments in the 1990s. From 1990 to 2020, Wenaasgruppen purchased and developed 58 hotels across Europe. Key acquisitions included the Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel in Oslo and several hotels in Copenhagen.

Key Business Strategies

Wenaas's success is largely attributed to his strategic investments in the European hotel market. Wenaasgruppen also manages a portfolio of listed stocks and bonds. The company's strategy has been to focus on hotels with over 200 rooms in central locations within major European cities.

Philanthropy

Information regarding Lars Wenaas's specific philanthropic initiatives is limited based on available search results. However, his family's wealth and business success indicate a capacity for philanthropic activities. Further research would be needed to determine the exact amounts and beneficiaries of his philanthropic endeavors.

Career Milestones

1931

Textile Factory Start

Lars Wenaas's grandfather started a small clothing factory in Måndalen, Norway.

1970s

Joined Family Business

Lars and his brother Nils entered the family business.

1990s

Hotel Investments

Shifted the company's focus to hotel real estate.

1996

Wenaas AS Listed

Wenaas AS was listed on the stock exchange.