Who is the 5th richest family in France?

France’s Fifth Richest Family: The Besniers Behind Lactalis

At number five on France’s wealth ranking stands the Besnier family, with a net worth of $25.5 billion as of December 2024. Quietly influential and largely out of the public eye, the family controls Lactalis, a dairy giant that many people interact with daily—perhaps without even realizing it.

Lactalis isn’t just a household name in France—it’s a global powerhouse. Founded in 1933 by André Besnier in the small town of Laval, the company started as a modest butter and cheese producer. Today, it’s the world’s largest dairy group, known for iconic brands like President, Galbani, and Société. From creamy brie to everyday yogurt, Lactalis products line supermarket shelves across continents.

Under the leadership of Emmanuel Besnier, the current CEO and grandson of the founder, the company has expanded aggressively through strategic acquisitions and international growth. Despite maintaining a low public profile, Emmanuel has steered the family business with a steady hand, emphasizing long-term stability over flashy visibility.

What sets the Besnier family apart is their commitment to keeping Lactalis privately held. Unlike other corporate giants, they avoid stock market pressures, allowing them to focus on generational planning and sustainable growth. This patience and foresight have paid off—especially in a sector as essential as food.

In a country known for its luxury empires and tech moguls, it’s telling that a family rooted in dairy holds such financial clout. Their success is a testament to the enduring value of staple goods and careful stewardship. While they may not dominate headlines, the Besniers have built an empire, one wheel of cheese at a time.