Early Life
Denis Shtengelov was born in Gubino, Tomsk Oblast, Russia, on May 14, 1972. He graduated from Tomsk State University in 1994 with a degree in economics. His entrepreneurial journey began with small-scale wholesale trade in raw seeds with his classmates. They supplied seeds to elderly women who roasted and sold them on the streets.
Rise to Success
In 1997, Shtengelov and his partners acquired a confectionery factory in Yashkino, Kemerovo region. This acquisition marked a significant turning point, transforming the business from seed trading to large-scale snack production. The company expanded to become KDV Group, which united five food plants. Over the years, KDV Group grew into a major snack producer in Russia, with brands such as "Kirieshki," "Yashkino," and "Chipsons". In 2004, KDV became the largest producer of wafers in Russia. Shtengelov also owns the Yarche! supermarket chain.
Key Business Strategies
Shtengelov's success is attributed to his strategic business moves. He expanded his business during the Russian recession, providing retailers with well-priced products and taking control of the supply chain. KDV Group's business model has been viable even during inflation, with prices kept lower than competitors.
Philanthropy
In 2018, Shtengelov, as a co-owner of the "Zimnyaya Vishnya" shopping mall in Kemerovo, contributed to the families of the victims of a deadly fire, disbursing approximately 3 million rubles to each family.