Reinhold Würth: A Visionary Entrepreneur's Journey
Biography of Reinhold Würth
Reinhold Würth: Architect of a Global Empire
Born on April 20, 1935, in Öhringen, Germany, Reinhold Würth
inherited a modest wholesale screw business from his father, Adolf Würth, in
1954 at the age of 19. Under his leadership, the company transformed into the
Würth Group, a global leader in the fastener and hardware industry. As of
October 2025, Forbes estimates his net worth at $38.9 billion, ranking him
among the world's wealthiest individuals.
Reinhold Würth: A Visionary Entrepreneur's Journey / Biography of Reinhold Würth#Reinhold Würth#German businessman and art collector#age#net worth
From Apprentice to CEO
Reinhold's journey began early; at 14, he became the
company's first employee, and by 15, he was making sales trips. After
completing his sales training in 1952, he joined the family business full-time.
Following his father's untimely death in 1954, Reinhold assumed control,
doubling sales within a year and setting the stage for the company's expansion.
Strategic Vision and Expansion
Under Reinhold's guidance, the Würth Group pursued
aggressive growth strategies. In 1987, the "Vision 2000" plan aimed
to increase sales from DM 1.3 billion to DM 10 billion, a target achieved
within the set timeframe. The company has since expanded globally, operating in
86 countries and employing over 80,000 people. In 2023, Würth reported record
sales of €20.4 billion, marking a 2.4% increase from the previous year.
Commitment to Innovation and Quality
Reinhold emphasized vertical integration, starting screw
production in 1958 to ensure quality control. In 1975, the company began
customizing products to meet specific customer needs. A dedicated R&D
department was established, leading to 60 patents filed in 2007. The ZEBRA
brand was introduced, offering high-quality products with a no-questions-asked
replacement policy.
Cultural Values and Leadership
Reinhold instilled a corporate culture based on humility,
excellence, and respect. He believed in setting ambitious goals and achieving
them through proactive sales and customer engagement. The company's
decentralized structure, with over 400 subsidiaries, allows for flexibility and
innovation. In 2025, the Würth Group continued to prioritize employee
well-being and sustainable practices.
Philanthropy and the Würth Foundation
In 1987, Reinhold established the Würth Foundation, focusing
on arts, culture, education, and research. The foundation's collection includes
over 18,300 works of art, and its museums are open to the public. In 2023, the
foundation awarded the €25,000 Würth Prize for European Literature to Irish
author Colm Tóibín.
Personal Life and Legacy
Reinhold is married to Carmen Würth, and they have three
children. They reside in Künzelsau, Germany. In January 2025, Reinhold stepped
down as Chairman of the Supervisory Board, passing the leadership to his
grandson, Benjamin Würth, while remaining Honorary Chairman.
Reinhold Würth's journey from a small family business to a global enterprise exemplifies visionary leadership and a commitment to quality, innovation, and cultural values.
