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Education: NA
Runs discount supermarket group Aldi Nord; firm
holding up amid economic downturn. Sales
expected to hit $31 billion in 2008. After World
War II he and older brother Karl transformed
their mother's corner grocery into Aldi.
Brothers split ownership in 1961; Karl took the
stores in southern Germany, plus the rights to
the brand in the U.K., Australia and the U.S.
Theo got the northern Germany stores and the
rest of Europe. Unable to operate Aldi stores in
U.S., Theo developed discount food store Trader
Joe's; now has more than 320 U.S. stores. Also
owns stake in Supervalu. Became a recluse after
being kidnapped for 17 days in 1971; said to
collect old typewriters; loves golf.
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