Billionaire Profile

Global Rank

#3073

Image: C Watts | CC BY 2.0 | via Wikimedia Commons

Yuri Shefler

CEO, alcohol

RUSSIA

Real-Time Net Worth

$1.057B

Estimated based on alcohol stock value as of March 6, 2026

0% (24h)

Age

Source

Alcohol

Industry

Food & Beverage

Citizenship

RUSSIA

Biography

Yuri Shefler is a prominent Russian-born businessman and the founder of the SPI Group, an international alcohol consortium with a global presence. He is known for building a vast spirits empire, including the iconic Stolichnaya vodka brand. With a net worth estimated at $1.1 billion as of February 2026, Shefler's wealth stems from his significant holdings in SPI Group and a diverse portfolio of assets, including real estate and luxury possessions. His career began after leaving the Soviet Army in 1987, leading him to dominate the international alcohol market. Shefler is also known for his acquisition of the French winery Château Miraval.

Fact Checked

Verified by Editorial Team

Live Data

Updated 3/6/2026

Wealth Over Time

Portfolio Holdings

SPI Group

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Yuri Shefler was born on September 10, 1967, in Oryol, Russia. Little is known about his early childhood. After completing his service in the Russian army in September 1987, he embarked on his business journey.

Rise to Success

Shefler's career took off in the post-Soviet era. He founded SPI Group in 1997, and made a significant acquisition of the Stolichnaya vodka brand in 1997. He subsequently acquired the Latvijas Balzams enterprise in 2001. Through strategic acquisitions and ventures, he established SPI Group as a leading player in the global spirits market, with distribution in over 160 countries.

Key Business Strategies

Shefler's key business strategy revolved around building an integrated spirits conglomerate. He acquired distilleries, expanded his retail network, and established a strong distribution network. His significant purchase of Stolichnaya Vodka was a pivotal move. SPI Group expanded further into real estate and agricultural ventures to diversify its portfolio.

Philanthropy

There is no specific information available on Yuri Shefler's current philanthropic initiatives and the exact amounts donated.

Career Milestones

1987

Began Business Career

After leaving the Soviet Army, Shefler began his journey in the business world.

1997

Founded SPI Group

Established the SPI Group, which later became a major player in the international alcohol market.

1997

Acquired Stolichnaya Vodka

Acquired the rights to Stolichnaya vodka, a pivotal moment in building his spirits empire.

2001

Acquired Latvijas Balzams

Expanded his business with the acquisition of the Latvian enterprise.

2022

Acquired Angelina Jolie's Share of Chateau Miraval

Acquired Angelina Jolie's stake in the French winery Chateau Miraval.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Humanitarian Aid

Support for Ukraine

$0.157M

Launched a limited-edition Stoli vodka to raise funds for Ukrainian relief efforts.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

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Leadership Principles

Building a Global Spirits Empire

Focused on creating a fully integrated spirits company, managing all aspects from production to distribution.

Controversies & Challenges

2001

Stolichnaya Trademark Dispute

Faced a legal dispute over the Stolichnaya vodka trademark with the Russian government.

2020

Benelux Ban

The Dutch Supreme Court ruled against SPI Group, ordering it to stop selling products in the Benelux region.

2022

UK Executive Lawsuit

Ordered to pay over £1.6 million to a former UK executive after the executive complained about pay cuts.

2024

Extremist Association Label

A district court in Russia branded Stoli Group as an extremist association for its support of Ukraine and seized three distilleries.

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