Key Facts: Italian Billionaires by Industry
A closer look at the Forbes ranking reveals that richest people in italy are strongly concentrated in a few key sectors, reflecting the country’s economic DNA and long-standing business culture.
- Luxury, fashion & lifestyle – approx. 35–40%
The strongest and most visible sector among Italy’s richest families. Fashion, luxury goods and lifestyle brands continue to generate global demand thanks to heritage, craftsmanship and brand power. Key names include Ferrero (Ferrero Group), Bertelli & Prada (Prada), Cucinelli (Brunello Cucinelli), Ruffini (Moncler), Armani family (Armani), Dolce & Gabbana, Bulgari, Benetton, Diesel and Ferrari. “Made in Italy” remains one of the country’s most valuable assets. - Industry, manufacturing & engineering – approx. 30%
Italy’s industrial billionaires are often less visible but form the backbone of the economy. These fortunes are built on steel, chemicals, components, infrastructure and advanced manufacturing. Leading figures include Rocca (Techint / Tenaris), Bombassei (Brembo), Squinzi family (Mapei), Stevanato (Stevanato Group), Arvedi (Arvedi Group) and Beretta. This sector highlights Italy’s strength in long-term, export-driven industrial excellence. - Food, beverage & consumer goods – approx. 15%
From everyday products to global household names, Italian food and consumer brands continue to scale internationally. Major fortunes come from Ferrero, Perfetti Van Melle, De’Longhi, Campari Group, and Cremonini Group, showing how Italian taste and consistency translate into worldwide success. - Finance, media & investments – approx. 10–12%
This category includes banking, asset management, media and diversified holding companies. Key names include Del Vecchio family (Luxottica / Delfin), Berlusconi family (Fininvest / Mediaset), Doris family (Banca Mediolanum) and Elkann (Exor). - Pharmaceuticals, healthcare & tech – approx. 8–10%
A smaller but steadily growing sector, driven by innovation and global expansion. Notable examples are Menarini, Chiesi, Dompé, Technogym, and crypto-related wealth such as Ardoino (Tether / Bitfinex).
Italian billionaires overwhelmingly come from family-led businesses, heritage brands, and industries built over decades, rather than short-term speculation. The dominance of luxury and manufacturing shows that Italy rich families are still deeply connected to identity, quality and long-term vision.
