Dieter Schwarz

Dieter Schwarz is best known as the founder and owner of Schwarz Group, the parent company of Lidl and Kaufland, two of the largest retail chains in Europe. Under his leadership, Schwarz Gruppe has grown significantly, expanding its operations across multiple countries and becoming a major player in the global retail industry. Schwarz maintains a low public profile but is recognized for his contributions to the retail industry and his significant philanthropic efforts, particularly in education, research, and social initiatives in Germany.

Dieter Schwarz had a keen sense for business from an early age, which was further honed through his education and work experiences.

• Born on September 24, 1939, in Heilbronn, Germany.

• Raised in a business-oriented family; his father owned a grocery store.

• Attended a local business school in Heilbronn.

• Joined his father's company, Lidl & Schwarz KG, in 1973, initially working in various roles.Took over the business after his father's death in 1977, focusing on expanding the discount supermarket chain.

• Played a key role in the international expansion of Lidl and Kaufland, making Schwarz Group one of the largest retail companies in the world.

Enjoys a quiet personal life with a commitment to business and charitable activities.

• Married Franziska Weipert in 1963; they live in Heilbronn, along with their two daughters, Regine and Monika.
• Known for extreme privacy; no media recordings of him exist, and he refuses interviews. Only three known photos of him are in the press or on Google Image search.
• Founded The Schwarz Foundation, which supports educational and cultural initiatives in Germany.