Early Life
William Wrigley Jr. II was born on October 6, 1963. He is the son of Alison (Hunter) and William Wrigley III, the grandson of Philip K. Wrigley, and the great-grandson of William Wrigley Jr., who founded the Wm. Wrigley Jr. Company. He graduated from Phoenix Country Day School, received a bachelor's degree from Duke University in 1985, and earned an MBA from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.
Rise to Success
William Wrigley Jr. began his career within the Wm. Wrigley Jr. Company in 1985. He held various positions, ascending to President and Chief Executive Officer from 1999 to 2006, and Chairman of the Board since 2004. Under his leadership, the company expanded beyond its traditional focus on chewing gum, acquiring brands like Altoids and Life Savers from Kraft Foods for $1.46 billion in 2005. He also oversaw the purchase of the Spanish confectionery company Joyco. In 2008, he sold the company to Mars, Incorporated for approximately $23 billion.
Key Business Strategies
Key business strategies included expanding the product portfolio through acquisitions, and strategic international expansion. Advertising was a significant component, with the company investing heavily in national campaigns to make its products instantly recognizable. Wrigley's success was also rooted in understanding consumer behavior and adapting to market trends.
Philanthropy
William Wrigley Jr. is a philanthropist. He has supported various charities, including the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and the Art Institute of Chicago. The William Wrigley Jr. Company Foundation has been involved in initiatives like the Youth Empowerment Success (Y.E.S.) program, which supports disadvantaged youth.
