5. Michele Ferrero and family – $20.4 billion
After Pietro Ferrero died in the 1950’s, his entire chocolate business was taken over by his son Michele Ferrero. Michele was able to expand the business into one of the largest confectionery makers in the world, with products and brands that include Ferrero Rocher hazelnut chocolates, Nutella and Tic Tac. The Italian group has more than 70 affiliated companies and 15 production plants. It also employs about 22,000 people around the world. The company is particularly strong in places like the United States, Russia and Brazil, three of the biggest countries in the world. He has two sons, Pietro and Giovanni, but the former passed away in 2011. Giovanni is now the Chief Executive Officer of the entire Ferrero group.
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