Early Life
Samvel Karapetyan was born on August 18, 1965, in the town of Kalinino (now Tashir) in the Armenian SSR. He graduated from the Yerevan Polytechnic Institute in 1986 with a degree in mechanical engineering. In the 1990s, he moved to Russia, where he began his entrepreneurial journey.
Rise to Success
In 1997, Karapetyan became the president of Kalugaglavsnab OAO, a logistics company. His career took a significant turn in 1999 with the establishment of the Tashir Group. The Tashir Group expanded to over 200 companies, employing over 30,000 people. Tashir Group is involved in various sectors, including real estate, construction, retail, food processing, and banking.
Key Business Strategies
Karapetyan's business strategy has involved strategic acquisitions, particularly during financial crises. The Tashir Group focused on expanding in the Moscow area and making significant investments in Armenia. Key ventures include the development of shopping centers, office complexes, and hotels. The group also acquired Electric Networks of Armenia, investing in its modernization.
Philanthropy
Karapetyan is known for his extensive philanthropy, primarily through the Tashir Charitable Foundation. His philanthropic efforts include supporting displaced families, restoring churches, constructing schools and hospitals, and aiding social infrastructure in Armenia and Artsakh. In 2015, he pledged $1 million to the Hayastan All-Armenian Fund's telethon.