Ilson Mateus & family

Net Worth

$1.417B

+0.46% (24h)

Ilson Mateus Rodrigues, born in Imperatriz, Maranhão, in the 1960s, is the founder of Grupo Mateus. Starting as a small grocery store in 1986, Mateus transformed the business into Brazil's fourth-largest food retailer. With a net worth of $1.6 billion, his wealth stems from Supermarkets, with a successful career marked by strategic growth and expansion. Ilson Mateus's achievements include building a retail empire with over 200 stores, employing over 40,000 people and taking the company public in 2020, as the largest IPO of that year in Brazil. He is also known for his philanthropy, supporting initiatives in education, healthcare, and economic development.

The Full Dossier

Early Life

Ilson Mateus Rodrigues was born in Imperatriz, Maranhão, in the 1960s. From a young age, he worked in various jobs, including as a miner and producing cachaça, to support his family. This early exposure to hard work laid the foundation for his entrepreneurial spirit.

Rise to Success

In 1984, Ilson Mateus opened a small grocery store in Balsas, Maranhão. With a keen eye for business, he expanded the store into a medium-sized supermarket. His strategic expansion continued with new stores in Maranhão, and the company later diversified into e-commerce and other segments. Ilson Mateus took Grupo Mateus public in October 2020, marking the largest IPO of the year in Brazil.

Key Business Strategies

Ilson Mateus focused on strategic expansion, market diversification and adapting to the local consumer profile. The Group diversified its portfolio from staple foods to electronics and household items and expanded into wholesale. The company hired Falconi Consulting to structure internal processes and strategies in 2017.

Philanthropy

Ilson Mateus is known for his philanthropic efforts and community contributions, supporting social initiatives in education, healthcare, and economic development.

Career Timeline

2020

IPO

Took Grupo Mateus public, the largest IPO of the year in Brazil.

1986

Founded Grupo Mateus

Established Grupo Mateus, which became the foundation of his retail empire.

1984

Founded Grocery Store

Opened a small grocery store in Balsas, Maranhão, marking the beginning of Grupo Mateus.

Philanthropic Impact

Community Development$XB

Community Support

Supports initiatives focused on education, healthcare, and economic development.