Early Life
Axel Oberwelland was born on August 1, 1966, in Bielefeld, Germany. He is the son of Klaus Oberwelland, who took over the family business in 1971, and the grandson of Hugo Oberwelland, who managed the company since 1921. Axel attended high school in Bielefeld, followed by a boarding school near St. Moritz, Switzerland. He pursued a business degree at the University of St. Gallen, Switzerland.
Rise to Success
Axel Oberwelland's career is rooted in the confectionery industry, specifically with August Storck KG, a company founded by his great-grandfather in 1903. He became the owner of the company in 2003, succeeding his father. Under his leadership, Storck has maintained its reputation for producing high-quality confectionery products, which are beloved globally. The company is known for brands such as Werther's Original, Riesen, and Toffifee.
Key Business Strategies
Axel Oberwelland's strategies have focused on internationalization and worldwide growth. Storck's products are sold in more than 100 countries. The company has continuously invested in its German production facilities, ensuring a technological edge and expanding its product range. Storck has also expanded its sales network, adapting to consumer tastes.
Philanthropy
In 1992, Axel's father, Klaus Oberwelland, established the Stork Foundation to preserve endangered stork populations.