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Billionaire Profile
Wolfgang Herz
Global Rank
#730

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Wolfgang Herz

CEO, Tchibo
DE
Real-Time Net Worth
$5.6B
As of December 2025
Age
74
Source
Coffee
Industry
fashion-retail
Citizenship
DE

Biography

Wolfgang Herz is a prominent German businessman and co-owner of Tchibo, a leading German coffee shop and retail chain. Born in Hamburg in 1950, he inherited a substantial fortune from his father, Max Herz, who co-founded Tchibo in 1949. Wolfgang, along with his brother Michael, has significantly contributed to Tchibo's success, expanding its reach and diversifying its product offerings. With a current net worth of $5.6 billion, Herz has also been recognized for his philanthropic endeavors and business achievements. His career highlights include growing Tchibo into a major international brand, solidifying his legacy in the retail and coffee industries.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Wolfgang Herz was born in Hamburg, Germany, in 1950. He is the son of Max Herz and Ingeburg Herz. His father, Max Herz, co-founded Tchibo in 1949 with Carl Tchilinghiryan. Wolfgang grew up in a wealthy family, with his parents being successful businesspeople.

Rise to Success

Wolfgang Herz, along with his brother Michael, inherited the family business. In 2003, Wolfgang and Michael bought out their siblings' shares of Tchibo, making them the sole owners of the company. Together, they have grown Tchibo into one of the largest coffee shop and retail chains in the world, with over 1,000 stores in Germany and Austria, and a presence in numerous other countries.

Key Business Strategies

Herz's business strategies have focused on expanding the product range beyond coffee, including clothing, household items, electronics, and services like travel and insurance. This diversification has helped Tchibo weather market fluctuations. Additionally, the company has focused on sustainability and ethical sourcing, earning awards for its practices.

Philanthropy

Wolfgang Herz is known for his philanthropic work, though specific amounts and initiatives are not readily available in the search results. He has supported various charities, reflecting a commitment to social responsibility.

Career Milestones

1949

Tchibo Founded

Wolfgang Herz's father, Max Herz, co-founded Tchibo with Carl Tchilinghiryan.

2003

Took over Tchibo

Wolfgang and his brother Michael bought out their siblings' shares of Tchibo, making them the sole owners.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Charity

Various Charities

$XB

Wolfgang Herz has donated millions of dollars to various charities.

Controversies & Challenges

2003

Family Feud

Wolfgang, along with his brother Michael, pushed out their siblings from the company.