Famous Brothers in the business world include the Wright brothers, Koch brothers, Candy brothers, and more. Numerous prosperous companies have been established and managed by siblings.
Sibling rivalry is a common aspect of family life, often experienced between brothers. This sense of competition can lead to discomfort.
However, when brothers join forces, they hold the potential to transform the world. The Wright brothers are a prime example, pioneering the aviation industry and revolutionizing global travel. Similarly, the Collison brothers achieved billionaire status by co-founding the e-commerce powerhouse Stripe.
In this context, we’ve highlighted 10 brothers who successfully built thriving businesses together.
1. Wilbur Wright and Orville Wright
Wilbur and Orville Wright are renowned for their achievements in aviation and their transformation from brothers to successful business partners.
Born to Bishop Milton Wright and Susan Catherine Koerner Wright, Wilbur was born on April 16, 1867, and Orville on August 19, 1871, in Dayton, Ohio. Their family included four additional siblings, Lorin, Ida, Katharine, and Otis, with Ida and Otis tragically passing away shortly after birth.
Before gaining fame as aviation pioneers, the Wright brothers engaged in various ventures. They established a newspaper named West Side in 1889, with Orville as the publisher and Wilbur as the editor. Additionally, they operated a bicycle shop where they sold their designs and conducted bike repairs.
Inspired by the death of German aviator Otto Lilienthal in 1896, the Wrights undertook the monumental task of creating a functional airplane. They achieved their milestone on December 17, 1903, when they successfully flew their first prototype, covering 852 feet in 59 seconds.
Despite initial skepticism in the US, the brothers found enthusiasm for their invention in Europe. They sold airplanes there, amassing wealth and returning to the US in 1909. They became celebrated airplane manufacturers and amassed a combined net worth of $10 million.
Tragically, Wilbur passed away at age 45 on May 30, 1912, while Orville died at 76 on January 30, 1948. Both brothers remained unmarried and have no direct descendants.
2. David Koch and Charles Koch
David and Charles Koch are members of the prominent Koch family and played pivotal roles in Koch Industries.
Born to Fred and Mary Koch, Charles was born on November 1, 1935, and David on May 3, 1940, in Wichita, Kansas. Their family also included siblings Bill and Frederick, with David passing away in 2019 and Frederick in 2020.
Both brothers served as executives in Koch Industries, which their father founded. Charles became CEO and played a significant role in the company’s expansion, while David was the executive vice president before his retirement in 2018 due to health reasons.
Koch Industries, initially focused on petroleum products, expanded into diverse sectors, making substantial profits. As of 2023, Charles has a net worth of $66 billion, while David had a net worth of $58 billion at the time of his death in 2019.
Charles is married to Liz Koch, and they have two children, Chase and Elizabeth. David left behind his wife Julia Koch and their three children, David Jr., Mary Julia, and John Mark.
3. Christian Candy and Nick Candy
Christian and Nick Candy have made a name for themselves as luxury property developers based in London. They are the co-founders of Candy London, previously known as Candy & Candy. This company specializes in designing and developing opulent properties across the globe.
Some of their renowned projects include the One Hyde Park Penthouse in London, Providence House in Chelsea, London, The Reserve in Holmby Hills, Los Angeles, Carlos Place in Mayfair, London, and the impressive 11:11 superyacht, among others.
Born in London to parents Tony Candy and Patricia Candy, Nick, aged 50, is the elder of the two brothers, while Christian is currently 48 years old.
Their journey in property development began in 1995 when they purchased a modest flat in Redcliffe Square, London, for £122,000. After skillfully renovating it, they sold it for £172,000, securing a profit of £50,000.
In 1999, the brothers officially established Candy & Candy, with Nick taking on the role of CEO. However, in 2018, they decided to part ways officially, resulting in the company being rebranded as Candy London to emphasize Nick’s ownership. Additionally, Christian founded his own company named CPC Group Limited in 2004.
As of 2023, Nick’s net worth is estimated to be $2 billion, while Christian’s fortune is valued at $1.1 billion.
Delving into their personal lives, Nick has been happily married to Australian model and actress Holly Valance since 2012. The couple shares two children named Luka Violet Toni Candy and Nova Skye Coco.
Christian tied the knot with Emily Crompton in 2010. The couple is blessed with twin children named Cayman Charles Wolf and Isabella Monaco Evanthia.
Their success in the luxury property development industry has not only elevated their financial status but also earned them a place among the influential figures in their field.
Read also: The world’s 10 Richest Royal Families Ranked 2023
4. Albert Warner and Harry Warner
Albert and Harry Warner are the co-founders of the renowned American entertainment company, Warner Bros. Entertainment, Inc. While their original co-founders also included their brothers Samuel and Jack Warner, Albert and Harry became the prominent figures behind the company’s success.
Harry Warner, the eldest among the four brothers, was born on December 12, 1881, in Krasnosielc, Congress Poland. Similarly, Albert was born on July 23, 1884.
The four Warner brothers initiated the company’s establishment in 1923, initially under the name Warner Brothers Pictures, Inc. However, they frequently contended that the company had been operational since 1905.
Harry played a pivotal role from the New York headquarters and held the position of the company’s President. Albert contributed as the company’s treasurer, while Jack and Sam managed the Hollywood studio.
Warner Bros. gained prominence in its early years with the production of silent movies and theatrical plays like “The Gold Diggers”, “Where the North Begins”, “The Marriage Circle”, and more.
One of the earliest stars associated with the company was Rin Tin, a German Shepherd from Flirey, France. Rescued by American soldier Lee Duncan from a World War I battlefield, the dog appeared in over 20 movies produced by the company, including titles like “Find Your Man”, “Tracked in the Snow Country”, “Below the Line”, “The Night Cry”, and others.
Throughout the years, Warner Bros. has released numerous movies that have garnered both critical acclaim and financial success, such as “Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2”, “The Dark Knight Rises”, “Joker”, “Aquaman”, “Wonder Woman”, and more. The company boasts an astonishing net worth exceeding $34 billion.
As of 2023, none of the original co-founders of Warner Bros. are still alive. Harry passed away at the age of 76 on July 25, 1958. Similarly, Albert was 83 years old when he passed away on November 26, 1967. The other two Warner siblings, Sam and Jack, also passed away in 1937 and 1978, respectively.
5. Gary Rollins and Randall Rollins
Gary and Randall Rollins achieved billionaire status through their involvement in the family-owned enterprise, Rollins, Inc.
Born to businessman O Wayne Rollins and his wife Grace Crum Rollins in Georgia, the brothers followed distinct birthdates. Randall was born on November 5, 1931, while Gary arrived nearly 13 years later on August 30, 1944.
Their father, O Wayne, in collaboration with his brother John W Rollins, established Rollins, Inc. in 1948. By 2023, the company had expanded to encompass three major subsidiaries: Orkin, Rollins Communications, and RPC Energy Services, Inc. Orkin specializes in pest control, Rollins Communications operates in media and advertising, and RPC Energy engages in gas and oil services.
Randall Rollins assumed the role of Board Chairman for Rollins Inc. in addition to holding the position of Chief Operating Officer for RPC Energy Services and Rollins Communication. On the other hand, his brother Gary has fulfilled the roles of CEO for Rollins Inc. since 2001 and Chairman of Orkin since 2004.
Sadly, Randall passed away after a brief illness at the age of 88 on August 17, 2020. He is survived by his wife Peggy Hastings Rollins and their five children: Robert, Richard, Amy, Pamela, and Timothy. He left behind a substantial fortune of $2.7 billion for his family.
In contrast, Gary, currently 78 years old, remains alive and in good health. He is married to Ruth Magness Rollins, and together they have four children. Their family comprises two sons and two daughters named Glen Rollins, O Wayne Rollins II, Ruth Ellen Rollins, and Nancy Louise Rollins.
As of 2023, according to CelebrityNetWorth, Gary, the CEO of Rollins, Inc., possesses a personal net worth of $2.5 billion.
6. Maurice Saatchi and Charles Saatchi
Maurice and Charles Saatchi are notable Iraqi-British businessmen who made their mark in the advertising industry.
In 1970, the brothers co-founded the advertising consultancy Saatchi & Saatchi, a venture that propelled them to success.
The iconic “Pregnant Man” advertisement, created for the Health Education Council, was a breakthrough moment for their company. This ad, advocating for male responsibility in contraception, garnered significant attention and recognition.
In 1975, Saatchi & Saatchi merged with Garland Compton, leading to the establishment of Saatchi & Saatchi Garland Compton. The ensuing years saw remarkable growth, with the acquisition of more than 35 marketing businesses.
However, the brothers’ journey took a different turn in 1995 when Maurice was ousted from his role as Chairman, prompting their exit from Saatchi & Saatchi. Subsequently, the company was renamed Cordiant Communications Group.
Undeterred, Maurice and Charles, along with Jeremy Sinclair and Bill Muirhead, founded M&C Saatchi as a rival firm. Operating in over 23 nations worldwide, the company has offices across the UK, US, Africa, Asia, Australia, and the Middle East.
Charles holds an estimated net worth of $200 million, while Maurice’s fortune reportedly matches his brother’s.
On the personal front, Charles has been married three times – to Doris Lockhart (1973-1990), Kay Saatchi (1990-2001), and Nigella Lawson (2003-2013). His daughter, Phoebe Saatchi, was born to his second wife, Kay, in 1994.
Likewise, Maurice has had two marriages. He first wed Gillian Osband in 1972, with the marriage lasting 12 years. His second marriage was to Josephine Hart in 1984; they separated in 2011. Maurice’s son, Edward Saatchi, born on February 19, 1985, is also involved in business.
7. Walt Disney and Roy Disney
Walt and Roy Disney, the pioneering brothers, co-founded The Walt Disney Company, a globally recognized conglomerate.
Born to Elias Charles Disney and Flora Call Disney in Chicago, Illinois, Roy, the elder twin, was born on June 24, 1893, while Walt was born on December 5, 1901.
Their journey began when they established Disney Brothers Studio on October 16, 1923, in Burbank, California. The introduction of Mickey Mouse in 1928 marked a pivotal moment, propelling Disney into a global phenomenon.
In 1926, the company was renamed Walt Disney Studio, with Walt focusing on creativity and Roy overseeing operational aspects. Eventually, Walt bought out Roy’s share, and the latter continued as CEO, Co-Chairman, and President.
While Walt was a creative visionary, Roy excelled in managing the business. Both brothers’ contributions paved the way for the company’s success.
Walt married Lillian Bounds in 1925, and they had two daughters, Sharon Mae Disney and Diane Disney Miller. Roy married Edna Francis in 1925, and their family expanded to include Abigail Disney, Roy Patrick Disney, Tim Disney, and Susan Disney Lord.
Walt passed away at 65 in 1966 due to lung cancer, while Roy passed away on December 20, 1971, following a stroke.
As of 2023, The Walt Disney Company’s valuation exceeds $197 billion, housing subsidiaries such as Walt Disney World Resort, Disneyland Resort, Marvel Entertainment, Hulu, Lucasfilm, and ESPN.
8. David Barclay and Frederick Barclay
David and Frederick Barclay, commonly known as the Barclay brothers, were British billionaire twins with interests spanning real estate, media, and retail.
Born 10 minutes apart on October 27, 1934, the brothers were raised by Beatrice Cecilia and Frederick Hugh Barclay. With a total of nine siblings, the family had a significant presence. Their father’s death at age 12 and their mother’s passing in 1989 shaped their early lives.
Through a variety of jobs and enterprises, they achieved prominence between 1968 and 1974 by securing loans from Crown Agents. This enabled them to purchase Gestplan Hotels in London.
Their investments extended to breweries, casinos, shipping companies, and more. Their holdings included Ellerman Lines, The Very Group, Littlewoods, Yodel, Woolworths, Ladybird, The European, and The Scotsman, among others.
David passed away at 86 on January 10, 2021. Surviving him are his wife, Zoe Newton, and their three sons: Howard, Alistair, and Aidan.
Frederick, previously married to Hiroko Asada for 34 years, has a daughter named Amanda Rica Barclay and a stepson, Ko Asada Barclay.
In 2020, their combined net worth was reported at £7 billion ($8.4 billion) according to The Sunday Times.
9. Cameron Winklevoss and Tyler Winklevoss
Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss are American investors and former Olympic rowers renowned for their involvement in cryptocurrencies.
Born on August 21, 1981, in Southampton, New York, the identical twins co-founded Winklevoss Capital Management and Gemini, a cryptocurrency exchange company, in 2010.
Fascinated by the digital realm at a young age, they founded a company creating commercial websites by the age of 13. Their journey led them to co-found ConnectU in 2004, and they gained widespread attention for their legal battle with Mark Zuckerberg, as portrayed in the film “The Social Network”.
Their efforts in the cryptocurrency space paid off, with a substantial fortune stemming from investments in Bitcoin.
As of 2023, both Cameron and Tyler have individual net worths of $800 million, totaling a combined net worth of $1.6 billion.
10. John Collison and Patrick Collison
John and Patrick Collison, Irish billionaire brothers, co-founded Stripe, Inc., an online financial services company.
Born in 1990 and 1988 respectively in Dromineer, Ireland, the siblings have had a remarkable journey in the business world. Stripe, their brainchild established in 2010, has achieved a market value of over $74 billion by 2023.
Their parents, Denis and Lily Collison, nurtured their entrepreneurial spirit. The brothers’ journey to becoming the youngest billionaires began with investments in Bitcoin and the creation of commercial websites.
Stripe’s growth was accelerated by investments from prominent names like Peter Thiel, Elon Musk, and Sequoia Capital.
Both John and Patrick possess a net worth of $6.9 billion each in 2023, showcasing their impressive success in the tech and business world.
FAQ – Famous Brothers in the Business World
1. Who are the Wright brothers?
Wilbur and Orville Wright are renowned aviation pioneers and successful business partners. They are famous for their contributions to the aviation industry, particularly for designing and flying the world’s first successful powered airplane.
2. What is the success story of David and Charles Koch?
David and Charles Koch are members of the Koch family and played significant roles in expanding Koch Industries. The company began in the petroleum industry and later diversified into various sectors, making them billionaires.
3. Who are Christian and Nick Candy?
Christian and Nick Candy are British luxury property developers known for their company, Candy & Candy. They have created opulent properties worldwide, and their journey started with purchasing and renovating a modest flat.
4. Who were the co-founders of Warner Bros.?
Albert and Harry Warner were the co-founders of Warner Bros. Entertainment, Inc., a prominent American entertainment company. They played pivotal roles in the company’s success, producing iconic films over the years.
5. How did Gary and Randall Rollins achieve success?
Gary and Randall Rollins achieved billionaire status through their family-owned enterprise, Rollins, Inc., which operates in pest control, media, and oil services. They held leadership positions and contributed to the company’s growth.
6. How did Maurice and Charles Saatchi make their mark?
Maurice and Charles Saatchi co-founded Saatchi & Saatchi, a successful advertising consultancy. They are known for their innovative and memorable campaigns, and their journey led them to establish M&C Saatchi as well.
7. Who are the pioneering brothers behind The Walt Disney Company?
Walt and Roy Disney co-founded The Walt Disney Company, a global entertainment conglomerate known for its iconic characters, movies, and theme parks. They combined creative vision and business acumen to build a legendary company.
8. What are the achievements of David and Frederick Barclay?
David and Frederick Barclay, known as the Barclay brothers, achieved success in real estate, media, and retail. They made strategic investments in various sectors, amassing substantial wealth and leaving a lasting legacy.
9. How did Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss contribute to the business world?
Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss are known for co-founding Winklevoss Capital Management and Gemini, a cryptocurrency exchange company. They gained prominence through their involvement in cryptocurrencies and investments.
10. What is the success story of John and Patrick Collison?
John and Patrick Collison, Irish brothers, co-founded Stripe, an online financial services company. Their entrepreneurial journey began with ventures in technology and culminated in the creation of a multi-billion dollar company.
