Kevin David Lehmann, a 22-year-old German entrepreneur, has emerged as a prominent figure in the retail industry as the co-owner of dm-drogerie Markt (dm), Germany’s leading drugstore chain. With an estimated net worth of $3.5 billion as of March 2025, Lehmann’s ascent to wealth is rooted in a legacy of strategic investment and family stewardship.
Founded in 1973 by Götz Werner in Karlsruhe, dm began as a modest self-service store. In 1974, Günther Lehmann, Kevin’s father, invested in the company, acquiring a 50% stake. Despite this significant investment, neither Günther nor Kevin has been involved in the operational management of dm. Günther transferred his shares to Kevin, who was then 14 years old, with a trustee managing the assets until Kevin reached the age of majority.
Today, dm operates over 4,000 stores across Europe and generates annual revenues exceeding €15 billion. Under the leadership of Christoph Werner, Götz Werner’s son, the company continues to thrive, adhering to a philosophy that prioritizes employee well-being and sustainable business practices.
Kevin David Lehmann: The Young Billionaire Behind dm
At just 22 years old, Kevin David Lehmann is one of the youngest billionaires globally as of March 2025. His wealth primarily stems from a 50% stake in dm-drogerie Markt (dm), Germany’s leading drugstore chain, renowned for its extensive network of over 4,000 stores across Europe and annual revenues exceeding €15 billion.
Founded in 1973 by Götz Werner in Karlsruhe, Germany, dm began with a single store. In 1974, Kevin’s father, Günther Lehmann, invested in the company, acquiring a 50% stake. Günther transferred his shares to Kevin, who was then 14 years old, with a trustee managing the assets until Kevin reached the age of majority.
Despite his significant ownership, Kevin has maintained a low public profile and is not involved in the day-to-day operations of dm. The company is currently managed by Christoph Werner, the son of Götz Werner, who has been at the helm since 2011.
The Legacy of dm-drogerie markt and the Lehmann Family
dm-drogerie markt, often simply referred to as dm, is a cornerstone of the European retail landscape, recognized for its emphasis on customer service, sustainability, and employee well-being. Founded in 1973 by Götz Werner in Karlsruhe, Germany, dm began as a small self-service drugstore but quickly expanded to become one of the largest drugstore chains in Europe, boasting over 4,000 stores across multiple countries today.
The Lehmann family’s involvement with dm began in 1974 when Günther Lehmann, Kevin David Lehmann’s father, invested in the company and acquired a 50% ownership stake. Although the Lehmanns never managed daily operations, their growth and stability were notable.
Günther Lehmann passed his shares to his son Kevin when Kevin was only 14 years old. The shares were held in trust until Kevin reached adulthood, ensuring the family’s legacy would continue through the next generation.
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How Kevin David Lehmann Inherited His Stake in dm
Kevin David Lehmann’s journey to becoming one of the world’s youngest billionaires is rooted in a strategic family investment and a carefully planned transfer of assets.
Kevin’s father, Günther Lehmann, acquired a 50% stake in dm-drogerie Markt (dm), Germany’s leading drugstore chain, which was founded by Götz Werner in 1973. At that time, dm had just opened its second store and lacked the capital for expansion. Günther, then managing the family’s Pfannkuch grocery chain, provided the necessary funds, thereby securing his stake in the company.
Günther made a significant decision to transfer his 50% ownership in dm to his son, Kevin, who was just 14 years old at the time. To comply with legal requirements, the shares were held in trust until Kevin reached the age of majority. Upon turning 18 in September 2020, Kevin officially took ownership, marking his entry into the ranks of the world’s youngest billionaires.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Kevin David Lehmann’s estimated net worth?
His net worth is estimated at around $3.5 billion, primarily due to his stake in dm.
When did Kevin officially become the owner of the shares?
Although he received the shares at 14, they were held in trust until he turned 18, at which point he officially gained ownership.
What role did Kevin’s father play in dm?
Günther Lehmann invested in dm in 1974, acquiring a 50% stake; however, he was never involved in the daily management.
What makes dm a successful company?
DM’s success is attributed to its customer focus, sustainability efforts, and a strong corporate culture that emphasizes employee well-being.
What is the future outlook for dm under Kevin’s ownership?
While Kevin remains a passive owner, dm continues to grow and innovate under professional management, maintaining its strong market position.
Conclusion
Kevin David Lehmann’s rise as the owner of dm-drogerie Markt highlights the power of family legacy and wise investment. Though still young and not involved in the daily operations, his ownership stake places him among the world’s youngest billionaires. The Lehmann family’s long-standing connection to dm has helped secure the company’s success, allowing it to grow into one of Europe’s largest and most respected retail chains. As dm continues to thrive under experienced leadership, Kevin’s story reminds us how thoughtful planning and generational wealth can shape the future of global business.