Olav Thon

$6.00 B

Ranked #198 in World

About Olav Thon

Olav Thon, Norway's eminent real estate mogul and centenarian, born on June 29, 1923, has significantly impacted the Norwegian economy through his expansive Olav Thon Group, the nation's foremost private real estate firm boasting 450 properties, including 60 hotels. Residing near Oslo in Sollihøgda, Hole municipality, Thon's journey from a humble farm boy to a real estate titan is a testament to his dedication and hard work. Despite his vast wealth, estimated at US$1 billion in February 2014, Thon announced his intention to donate his entire fortune to medical science via an independent foundation, emphasizing his commitment to giving back to society. A devout Christian without heirs, Thon's personal life is marked by his long-standing relationship with Sissel Berdal Haga, whom he married in 2019 after the passing of his first wife, Inger-Johanne Thon. Thon's business acumen is evident in his strategic acquisitions and investments, including the purchase of Unger Fabrikker AS in 1992 and a significant stake in the publicly traded Olav Thon Eiendomsselskap ASA. His philanthropic efforts and business success have earned him an honorary doctorate from Karlstad University in 2013 and the admiration of many.

Born

June 29, 1923 in Øl, Hallingdal, Norway

Source Of Wealth

Real Estate

Industries

Real Estate

Citizenship

Norway

Residence

Sollihøgda

Spouse

Sissel Berdal Haga

Olav Thon was born on 29 June 1923 in Ål, Hallingdal, Norway. He grew up as a "farm boy who only went to the city to sell fox pelts".

Olav Thon: Family

Olav Thon was married to Inger-Johanne Thon (1919-2018) until her death. They did not have any children. After Inger-Johanne's death, Olav Thon lived with his partner Sissel Bergal Haga for over 30 years. They did not divorce due to Inger-Johanne's Alzheimer's. On 21 June 2019, Olav Thon married Sissel Berdal Haga.

Olav Thon: Career Highlights

Olav Thon bought his first building in 1951 and opened his first restaurant in 1966. Today, his company, the Olav Thon Group, is Norway's largest private real estate company with 450 properties, including 60 hotels.

Olav Thon: Companies

The Olav Thon Group owns 450 properties in Norway, including shopping malls, office buildings, retail stores, and hotels. The company's principal holdings are private companies Stormgård AS and Thongård AS, as well as a major stake in publicly traded company Olav Thon Eiendomsselskap ASA. In 1992, the company acquired Unger Fabrikker AS, a Fredrikstad-based chemical manufacturer focused on anionic surfactants.

Olav Thon: Major Achievements

Olav Thon is a highly successful businessman and philanthropist. He is the founder and chairman of the Olav Thon Group, Norway's largest private real estate company. He is also the founder of the Olav Thon Foundation, which supports medical research and education.

Olav Thon: Awards & Achievements

Olav Thon has received numerous awards and honors for his business achievements and philanthropy. In 2013, he was appointed honorary doctorate at Karlstad University in Sweden.

Olav Thon: Personal Life & Legacy

Olav Thon lives just outside Oslo, in Sollihøgda, Hole municipality. He is a Christian and enjoys outdoor activities. He is an honorary member of the Norwegian Trekking Association. Thon is proud of his success and large tax bill, which he says he is glad to pay.

Olav Thon: Trivia

Olav Thon turned 100 on 29 June 2023.

He announced his intention to give away his entire fortune through an independent foundation focused on medical sciences. In 2013, he donated 71.9% stake in Olav Thon Eiendomsselskap ASA to a charity trust. His personal assets were estimated around US$1 billion in February 2014.

Wealth History

Timeline

29 June 1923

Olav Thon is born in Oslo, Norway.

1951

Olav Thon buys his first building.

1966

Olav Thon opens his first restaurant.

1992

Olav Thon acquires Unger Fabrikker AS, a Fredrikstad-based chemical manufacturer focused on anionic surfactants.

2013

Olav Thon announces his intention to give away his entire fortune through an independent foundation focused on medical sciences.

2013

Olav Thon donates 71.9% stake in Olav Thon Eiendomsselskap ASA to charity trust.

February 2014

Olav Thon's personal assets are estimated around US$1 billion.

21 June 2019

Olav Thon marries Sissel Berdal Haga.

29 June 2023

Olav Thon turns 100.

Olav Thon : FAQs

What is Olav Thon's net worth?

As of 2013, Olav Thon's net worth was $6.00 billion.

What are Olav Thon's main sources of wealth?

Olav Thon's main source of income comes from Real Estate.

In which industry does Olav Thon primarily operate?

Olav Thon is primarily involved in the Real Estate industry.

Who is Olav Thon and what is he known for?

Olav Thon is a Norwegian real estate developer known for being the founder of the Olav Thon Group, Norway's largest private real estate company, which owns 450 properties, including 60 hotels.

What are some personal details about Olav Thon's life?

Olav Thon lives just outside Oslo, in Sollihøgda, Hole municipality. He is a Christian, married with no heirs, and grew up as a farm boy. He enjoys outdoor activities and is an honorary member of the Norwegian Trekking Association.

How did Olav Thon start his business career and what are his principal holdings?

Olav Thon bought his first building in 1951 and opened his first restaurant in 1966. His principal holdings include private companies Stormgård AS and Thongård AS, and a major stake in the publicly traded company Olav Thon Eiendomsselskap ASA.

What significant philanthropic effort has Olav Thon made?

Olav Thon announced his intention to give away his entire fortune through an independent foundation focused on medical sciences. In 2013, he donated a 71.9% stake in Olav Thon Eiendomsselskap ASA to a charity trust.

Can you tell us about Olav Thon's personal life and relationships?

Olav Thon was married to Inger-Johanne Thon until her death in 2018 and lived with his partner Sissel Berdal Haga for over 30 years before marrying her on 21 June 2019. He turned 100 on 29 June 2023.