Primark owners, the Weston family, have climbed two places in this year’s Sunday Times Rich List, securing the sixth spot with a combined wealth of £17.746bn.
This marks an improvement for the family, who saw their fortune rise significantly from £14.493bn in 2024, largely thanks to the strong performance of their Canadian business, George Weston Limited, which saw a 40% increase in share value.
The Weston’s empire spans several high-profile retail assets, including the much-loved Primark chain and luxury retailer Fortnum & Mason.
-
Related Story
-
This year’s Rich List reveals a stark trend of fluctuating fortunes, as the combined wealth of the top 350 individuals fell by 3% to £772.8 billion, marking the third consecutive year of decline.
Many names have dropped off the list, with several billionaires leaving the UK following changes to the non-domiciled tax status under Chancellor Rachel Reeves.
In addition to the Weston family’s success, the list also notes a handful of entrepreneurs, like Ben Francis of Gymshark. Last year, Francis claimed fourth spot on the 35 under 35 Rich list, with a net worth of £900m.
Castore founders Tom and Phil Beahon, who launched their sportswear brand from their parents’ home just a decade ago, have debuted in the top 350 with an estimated worth of £1bn.
Their success reflects the growing appeal of homegrown British brands in the international market, particularly in the competitive world of sports fashion.
Click here to sign up to Retail Gazette‘s free daily email newsletter
