Bill and Jean Adderley & Family

Overview

Bill and Jean Adderley are a British billionaire couple who founded the homeware and furniture retailer, Dunelm in 1979. As of 2021, their net worth is estimated to be $2.6 billion, according to Forbes. They also have a private investment firm, Wittington Investments, which holds stakes in several high-profile companies.

Early Life and Education

Bill Adderley was born on June 21, 1948, in Leicester, England, while Jean was born on October 13, 1949, in Wellingborough, England. They both attended local schools and later went on to study business and marketing.

Career and Achievements

Bill started his career in the textile industry before founding Dunelm with Jean in 1979. The couple used a market stall to sell their products before opening their first store in Leicester. The business grew rapidly, and they opened several more stores across the UK. Today, Dunelm has over 170 stores and a strong online presence, making it one of the UK’s largest homeware retailers.

Apart from Dunelm, the Adderley family has a private investment firm, Wittington Investments. The company holds stakes in several companies, including Associated British Foods (ABF), the owner of Primark, and Fortnum & Mason, a luxury department store. The family also owns the Belle Vue Stadium in Manchester, which hosts greyhound racing.

Personal Life

Bill and Jean Adderley are married and have four children. They are known to be private individuals who stay away from the media limelight.

Profile