Empire of the Vandermarliere family: From Tabaculture to Real Estate, Fortune of €632m
Vandermarliere family
Guido Vandermarliere, who has a estimated wealth of 632,855,000 eurosis distinguished by its significant contribution to the tobaccoHe was born and bred in the world of tobacco. Born and raised in the world of tobacco, he joined the family business in 1965, subsequently consolidating its legacy as an influential industry executive.
Under his leadership, the company achieved a considerable leap in tobacco sales volume, multiplying its figures by 34 between 1984 and 2008. This increase firmly positions their group among the top ten on the world market. In particular, the " Fleur du Pays " has made a name for itself in France, capturing up to 20% of market share.
In 2012, Guido sold the Gryson rolled tobacco factory to the Japan Tobacco Company for 475 million euros, a transaction that left its mark on the sector. Despite this, the anticipated continuation of Gryson's expansion was thwarted in 2018 by the factory's definitive closure, due to tightening regulations in Europe making the operation unprofitable.
The Vandermarliere family has retained the cigar factory in Zwevegem-Moen, specializing in the production of the J. Cortès, Neos and Amigos brands. Their dedication to cigars continues with Frederik Vandermarliere, who continues the family legacy by expanding the cigar empire. Among other things, he has invested in a leading cigar business in the United States, and has embarked on the cultivation of tobacco in NicaraguaThis is a tradition of quality and craftsmanship.
The family also emphasizes the importance of cigars as a symbol of luxury and relaxation, comparing their moderate consumption to that of other prestige products such as cigars.quality wine or beer artisan. They promote the idea that sharing a cigar can dissipate tension, especially during demanding meetings.
Guido's descendants are also active in the company. Katrien Vandermarliere, as CFO of Debal Coatingsplays a key role in financial management of the family holding company GT & Co, while Sofie Vandermarliere manages their impressive portfolio. real estateincluding ambitious projects such as the 'Cuna del Alma' resort in Tenerife, which includes the construction of ae 420 luxury homes.
For diversification, the Vandermarliere family acquired the Jules Destrooper cookies in 2015but the road to success has been fraught with financial difficulties, notably due to the challenges posed by post-Coronavirus market conditions and the war in Ukraine, with rising energy and raw material prices, but the Vandermarliere dynasty retains an estate estimated at over 790 million euros.
