Erivan Haub: Leading Germany’s Retail Giant Who faked his death

Erivan Haub, a name synonymous with German retail, was the longtime leader of the Tengelmann Group, one of the country’s biggest players in the industry. Here’s a closer look at his life and legacy:

From Heirship to Leadership

Born in 1932 in Wiesbaden, Germany, Erivan Haub inherited a retail legacy. His family, the Schmitz-Scholls, had established the Tengelmann grocery chain. Erivan honed his business acumen at the University of Hamburg, paving the way for his future role.

Guiding Tengelmann’s Growth

Erivan took the reins of Tengelmann and oversaw its expansion throughout his tenure. The group diversified beyond groceries, incorporating well-known brands like Aldi Nord, Kaiser’s supermarkets, and the clothing retailer KiK. Under his leadership, Tengelmann solidified its position as a retail powerhouse in Germany.

Maintaining Privacy

Despite his wealth and influence, Erivan Haub preferred a private life. He rarely appeared in public, and information about his personal life remains scarce. This focus on business secrecy shrouded his leadership in a veil of mystery.

A Family Legacy

Erivan’s legacy extends beyond Tengelmann. He raised three sons, all of whom have played a part in the family business. Most notably, his eldest son, Karl-Erivan Haub, tragically disappeared while mountaineering in 2018. The family continues to steer the Tengelmann Group, ensuring the Haub imprint remains prominent in German retail.

Erivan Haub’s story is a reminder of the influential figures who shape our everyday lives. His leadership and vision for Tengelmann transformed the German retail landscape, leaving a lasting impact.