Early Life
Lars Wenaas was born on April 19, 1951, in Rauma, Norway. His early life was rooted in Måndalen, where his grandfather started a clothing store in 1931. The family's business later evolved into the production and sale of work clothes. Lars, along with his brother Nils, entered the family business in the 1970s, contributing to its growth and success.
Rise to Success
Wenaas's career took a significant turn in the 1990s when the family began investing in hotel properties. This strategic shift marked the beginning of Wenaas's rise in the hospitality industry. The Wenaasgruppen acquired and developed numerous hotels, including the Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel in Oslo and hotels in Copenhagen.
Key Business Strategies
The core of Wenaas's business strategy has been acquiring and managing hotel properties in key European cities. The company focuses on owning, leasing, and operating hotels, often entering into long-term contracts with major hotel chains. Wenaasgruppen's portfolio strategy also includes a strong emphasis on asset management and investment in solid financial companies and bonds. The group sold its Russian hotels in 2023.
Philanthropy
Wenaas has been involved in philanthropy, contributing to local community projects and initiatives. He was named "Årets raumaværing" (Rauma Resident of the Year) in 2019 for his contributions to the local community.