How Did Chalerm Yoovidhya Make His Money? The Red Bull Story

Chalerm Yoovidhya is a member of a prominent family that owns a large share of Red Bull, the globally recognized energy drink. The Yoovidhya family holds a 51% stake in the company, with Chalerm personally owning a small portion of that stake. This stake was inherited from his father, Chaleo Yoovidhya, who co-founded Red Bull. The company’s popularity has skyrocketed over the years, selling over 12 billion cans worldwide in 2023 alone.

Chalerm Yoovidhya’s wealth stems directly from his family’s ownership of Red Bull. His father, Chaleo, initially developed a similar drink called Krating Daeng in Thailand. He later partnered with Dietrich Mateschitz, an Austrian businessman, to create and distribute Red Bull globally. The success of this venture, which led to the brand’s international popularity, is a major contributing factor to the Yoovidhya family’s wealth. Chalerm, as a member of this family, benefits from the company’s success through his inheritance and his personal stake in the company. Chaleo, who passed away in 2012, was also responsible for introducing Red Bull to the global market, helping to further expand the company’s reach and profitability. This expansion, and the resulting wealth, have cemented the Yoovidhya family’s position as one of the most successful beverage entrepreneurs in the world.