Ferrero Rocher Billionaire Heiress Maria Franca Ferrero Dies Aged 87
Maria Franca Ferrero, the billionaire heiress of the iconic Ferrero confectionary group, has died at the age of 87. She passed away in the early hours of Thursday morning at her home in Alba, located in the Piedmont region of Northern Italy.
Widow of Nutella Inventor and Family Legacy
Mrs Ferrero was the widow of Michele Ferrero, the entrepreneur who invented Nutella and Kinder products. Michele Ferrero is credited with transforming his family's small bakery into the global Ferrero Group superpower before his death in 2015. Maria Franca Ferrero was the mother of Giovanni Ferrero, the current chairman of the group, which owns renowned brands such as Nutella, Kinder, Ferrero Rocher, and Tic Tac.
Despite her association with the chocolate empire, it was reported that Maria Franca Ferrero herself did not particularly like chocolate. This personal detail adds a unique layer to her story within the confectionery world.
Wealth and Influence
As one of the wealthiest women in Italy, Maria Franca Ferrero's personal fortune was estimated in recent international rankings at around €2.2 billion. Her death marks the end of an era for the Ferrero family, which has maintained a significant presence in the global food industry for decades.
The Ferrero Group, under her family's leadership, has grown into a multinational corporation with a vast portfolio of sweet treats enjoyed by millions worldwide. The passing of Maria Franca Ferrero is a significant event in the business and cultural landscape, reflecting the enduring impact of the Ferrero dynasty.
