The business world dismisses one of its most influential figures. At 89, he died in Germany Horst Paulmann, founder of one of the chains of Supermarkets most important in Latin America. Its legacy transcends the borders of Chili and Argentina, countries where it consolidated its commercial empire, to extend to the entire region.
Paulmann was born in Germany, but his life was marked by the effort and vision of the future. After emigrating to South America, it began with a small family business that, over time, became a retail giant. With his company, he revolutionized the shopping experience and established a model of Supermarkets which became a reference for the entire industry.
His company managed to position himself as a leader in several countries, offering employment to thousands of people and constantly adapting to changes in consumption. His ability to innovate and expand made him a pioneer in the sector.
A leadership that transcended generations
Despite having progressively moved away from the direction of his company in recent years, Paulmann continued to be a key figure in strategic decision making. In 2021, he delegated the presidency to his daughter, who now has the challenge of maintaining the legacy and vision of growth that his father promoted for decades.
Paulmann’s influence was not only reflected in the business field, but also in his contribution to the development of the markets where he operated. His company opted for innovation and modernization of retail trade, investing in infrastructure and technology to improve consumer experience.
Even after his death, his business group continues to expand. In recent months, he announced a millionaire investment for the opening of new stores and the acquisition of other chains, consolidating its presence in the sector.
Horst Paulmann leaves an indelible mark on the history of Latin American retail. His vision, determination and adaptation capacity marked the course of the industry and made their way to new generations of entrepreneurs. His legacy will last in each of the stores he founded and in each employee who was part of his project.
