Richard DeVos Founder and co-owner of Amway. Date of Birth: 04.03.1926 Country: USA

Biography of Richard DeVos

Richard M. DeVos, the co-founder and owner of Amway, was born on March 4, 1926, in the small town of Grand Rapids, Michigan. During World War II, he participated in military actions and served in the United States Air Force.

In 1959, Richard M. DeVos and Jay Van Andel created the global business empire known as Amway. Over the years, Amway has become part of the Alticor Corporation, with annual sales reaching $6.4 billion. Amway specializes in the sale of cosmetics and household products, using a multi-level marketing system to promote its products.

Currently, the management of the company has been passed on to their sons, Doug DeVos and Steve Van Andel. Amway's sales are conducted through a network of independent distributors, which counts 3.5 million people worldwide. The company has offices in more than 80 countries and publishes its own magazine, called "Amagram," which is available in multiple languages.

In addition to Amway, Richard M. DeVos is also the owner of the basketball team, the Orlando Magic, which he acquired in 1991 for $85 million. The current value of the club is estimated at $247 million. DeVos is actively involved in the political scene of the United States and is an active member of the Republican Party. He supports the party's efforts to lower taxes in the country.

Furthermore, DeVos is known for his philanthropic activities. He sponsors organizations such as the National Organization on Disabilities, the Presidential AIDS Commission, and the Salvation Army. He is an honorary member of several American colleges and universities.

Richard M. DeVos has accumulated a vast fortune, currently estimated at $3.5 billion, placing him at the 249th position in Forbes' ranking.